Cotton knit fabric is fundamentally a fabric made by knitting cotton thread. Unlike other fabrics, the cotton threads are interloped to create the material, rather than being woven together.
Understanding Cotton Knit
Just as the name suggests, cotton knit fabric is a fabric that is made of cotton knitting. This distinguishes it from woven fabrics. Instead of crossing threads over and under each other (weaving), cotton knit is created using a process where one yarn forms loops that are then pulled through other loops.
Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics based on this method:
- Knitting Method: The core difference is that the cotton thread is knitted, not woven, to create this fabric.
- Structure: The structure is described as very intricate, with one yarn loop integrating with the other. This creates a flexible and often stretchy material.
- Properties: Such fabric is noted as being very strong and comfortable to wear. The looped structure contributes significantly to its comfort and drape.
Knit vs. Woven Cotton
While both knit and woven fabrics can be made from cotton, their construction leads to different properties.
| Feature | Cotton Knit | Cotton Woven |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Loops interlaced together (knitting) | Threads interlaced over/under (weaving) |
| Stretch | Typically stretchy | Typically less stretchy |
| Drape | Usually drapes well, soft | Can vary, often more structured |
| Edges | Can curl | Less likely to curl, frays easily |
Cotton knit fabric's inherent stretch and softness make it a popular choice for comfortable clothing like t-shirts, loungewear, and baby clothes.
