Basic Structure and Characteristics of Weft Knitting

Knitted fabrics exhibit different organizational structures, broadly categorized into three types: original organization, varied organization, and patterned organization. This classification includes basic structures like plain stitch, rib knit, and interlock knit, each influencing the fabric's properties and appearance. This article explores the diverse world of knitted fabrics, presenting various organizational structures produced by knitting machines, delving into the creative, varied, and patterned organizations of knitted fabrics.

1. Original Organization: Original organization, also known as basic organization, forms the foundation of all knitted fabrics. It includes weft knit, rib knit, and interlock knit. These structures are simple, making them easy to knit.

2. Varied Organization: Varied organization results from the combination of two or more original organizations. Examples include variations in weft knit and double-rib knit. These combinations alter the fabric's structure and properties.

3. Patterned Organization: Patterned organization, built upon original or varied organizations, involves introducing changes in loop structures or incorporating colored yarns, auxiliary yarns, or other textile materials to create fabrics with distinct patterns and unique properties.

Impact of Different Knitting Structures on Fabrics:

1. Weft Knit Structure:

   • Characteristics:
     • Slanting of loops due to yarn twist instability.
     • Pronounced rolling of edges.
     • Susceptibility to unraveling.
     • High elasticity and extensibility.
   • Applications: T-shirts, undergarments, and other stretchy apparel.

2. Rib Knit Structure:

   • Characteristics:
     • High transverse elasticity and resilience.
     • Limited edge rolling.
     • Excellent warmth due to air pockets formed between raised and lowered loops.
   • Applications: Cuffs, collars, leggings, and other garments requiring stretch and recovery.

3. Interlock Knit Structure:

   • Characteristics:
     • Increased vertical density and thickness.
     • Enhanced longitudinal elasticity and resilience.
     • Balanced edge rolling forces.
   • Applications: Double-faced fabrics, sportswear, and outerwear.

4. Impact of Structure on Stretch and Elasticity:

   • Original organization like weft knit provides significant longitudinal and transverse stretch.
   • Rib knit offers exceptional transverse stretch and resilience, with minimal edge rolling.
   • Varied organizations, such as double-rib, exhibit a balance between stretch and stability.

5. Effect on Dimensional Stability:

   • Varied organizations, particularly interlock knits, tend to have more stable dimensions due to their two-layered structure.
   • Original organizations like weft knit may exhibit more dimensional instability, especially in the presence of yarn twist variations.

6. Influence on Warmth:

   • Rib knit and double-rib knit structures contribute to better warmth retention due to the air-trapping properties within the fabric.

Conclusion: Understanding the impact of different knitting structures on fabric characteristics is crucial for selecting the appropriate knit for specific applications, ensuring comfort, durability, and the desired aesthetic in knitted garments.