Circular Interlock Knitting

Definition and Overview

Circular interlock knitting is a weft-knit structure, generally also called interlock. It is a double-knit fabric with nearly the same appearance on the front and back sides, and it is characterized by being easier to achieve thickness and stability than single-layer jersey.

As a name, “circular interlock knitting” primarily indicates the structure, but depending on the material, yarn thickness, stitch density, and finishing, the thickness, firmness, and stretchability can vary greatly.

Features

The surface is relatively smooth, and because there is little difference between the front and back sides, it is a textile that tends to look neat when made into garments. It has moderate thickness, is less see-through than thin jersey, and tends not to curl at the edges.

It stretches mainly in the horizontal direction, but it does not necessarily stretch as much as circular rib. In addition to the stretch from the knit structure, the rebound property (the ability to return after stretching) also changes depending on whether polyurethane is blended in.

• There are textiles with nearly the same appearance on both sides, making them easy to use reversibly.
• Because it is a knit, it has stretchability unlike woven fabric.
• Thicker fabrics make it easier to achieve warmth and shape retention.

Main Applications

Taking advantage of its comfort against the skin and easy-to-handle thickness, it is used for T-shirts, cut-and-sewn garments, polo shirts, dresses, skirts, pants, and more. Those made mainly from cotton are also used for innerwear, baby and kidswear, and nightwear.

Depending on the yarn used and the finishing, it can also be suitable for refined cut-and-sew garments, uniforms, and sports applications. Wool blends and fuzzy items may be used for tops and bottoms for autumn and winter.

Selection and Handling Notes

Depending on the intended application, check the composition, industry weight, thickness, stretch rate, and recovery. For items that follow the body, check horizontal stretch and rebound; for items where shape retention is important, check tightly knitted materials and those with firmness.

Because it is a knit, it may stretch in the vertical direction or ripple during cutting and sewing. Align the grain before cutting, and adjust differential feed and stretch-compatible sewing methods to suit the fabric. To prevent seam failure, also check the thread, needle, and seam stretch.

The degree of shrinkage, skewing, and color fading caused by washing varies depending on the composition and finishing. Before mass production, a washing test is necessary, along with pattern settings that account for shrinkage and a care method that follows the washing instructions.

Differences from Similar Terms

Jersey is a representative one-sided knit structure, and the front and back appearances differ, with a tendency for the edges to curl. Circular interlock knitting is a double-knit structure, so it is generally thicker than jersey and tends to have a more stable appearance.

Circular rib is also a type of double-knit, but it has visible rib-like ridges and stretches well in the horizontal direction. Circular interlock knitting has a smoother surface appearance and is often handled as a textile with less stretch than circular rib. Ponte is sometimes used to describe a similar appearance to circular interlock knitting, but depending on the yarn and structure design, it may refer to a knit fabric with more thickness and firmness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is circular interlock knitting suitable for summer?

Whether circular interlock knitting is suitable for summer depends on the composition, industry weight, yarn thickness, and finishing. Thin, absorbent types can also be used in spring and summer, but because they generally tend to be thicker than jersey, thicker fabrics are more suitable for autumn and winter, or for wear in air-conditioned environments.

Which stretches more, circular interlock knitting or circular rib?

In general, circular rib, which is a rib structure, stretches better in the horizontal direction. Circular interlock knitting also stretches, but it is a structure that tends to have a smooth surface and greater stability. However, the actual stretch varies depending on the stitch density and the polyurethane blend ratio, so the actual material should be checked.