Knitted vs. Woven

Attribute	Knitted	Woven
Construction	Interlocking loops of yarn	Interlacing two sets of yarn at right angles
Elasticity	More stretchy	Less stretchy
Drape	More fluid and flexible	Stiffer and more structured
Texture	Often softer and fuzzier	Can be smoother and more rigid
Production	Can be done by hand or machine	Usually done by machine

Introduction

When it comes to textiles, there are two main types of fabrics that are commonly used in the fashion and textile industry: knitted and woven fabrics. Both types of fabrics have their own unique characteristics and properties that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the attributes of knitted and woven fabrics to help you understand the differences between the two.

Fabric Structure

One of the main differences between knitted and woven fabrics lies in their structure. Knitted fabrics are made by interlocking loops of yarn, creating a stretchy and flexible material. On the other hand, woven fabrics are made by interlacing two sets of yarn at right angles to each other, creating a more stable and structured fabric.

Stretch and Recovery

Knitted fabrics are known for their stretchiness and ability to recover their shape after being stretched. This makes them ideal for garments that require a lot of movement, such as activewear and sportswear. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, have little to no stretch and do not recover their shape as well as knitted fabrics. This makes them more suitable for structured garments like suits and dresses.

Texture and Drape

Knitted fabrics have a softer and more fluid drape compared to woven fabrics. This is because the loops in knitted fabrics allow for more movement and flexibility. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, have a more rigid structure and tend to hold their shape better. This makes them ideal for garments that require a more structured silhouette.

Breathability and Insulation

Knitted fabrics are generally more breathable than woven fabrics due to the open structure of the loops. This allows for better air circulation, making knitted fabrics ideal for warm weather garments. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, are more tightly woven and provide better insulation, making them suitable for colder weather garments.

Production Process

The production process for knitted fabrics involves using knitting machines to create loops of yarn. This process is faster and more cost-effective than the production of woven fabrics, which involves weaving machines interlacing two sets of yarn. However, woven fabrics tend to be more durable and have a longer lifespan compared to knitted fabrics.

End Uses

Knitted fabrics are commonly used for casual and activewear due to their stretchiness and comfort. They are also popular for making accessories like scarves and hats. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, are often used for more formal and structured garments like suits, dresses, and outerwear. They are also commonly used for home textiles like curtains and upholstery.

Care and Maintenance

Knitted fabrics are generally easier to care for than woven fabrics, as they are less prone to wrinkling and shrinking. They also tend to be more forgiving when it comes to washing and drying. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, require more careful handling to prevent shrinkage and distortion. They may also require ironing to maintain their shape and appearance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knitted and woven fabrics each have their own unique attributes and properties that make them suitable for different applications. Knitted fabrics are known for their stretchiness, breathability, and soft drape, making them ideal for casual and activewear. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, are more structured, durable, and insulating, making them suitable for formal and structured garments. Understanding the differences between knitted and woven fabrics can help you choose the right fabric for your next project or garment.