When to choose woven fabrics over knitted ones

Textiles are defined by the yarns and threads that create them. Historically, textiles have been used for 100,000 years, dating all the way back to the Stone Age. The earliest examples of the use of cotton, silk and linen date back to 5000 B.C. Two different manufacturing processes emerged for the main types of textiles. 

Woven and knitted. What is the difference between woven and knitted fabrics? One of the main questions to ask yourself when choosing a textile is whether you need a woven or a knitted product. The best way to answer this question is to understand the difference between these two types. In this blog, I want to discuss the differences between woven and knitted textiles and some examples of each to help you understand what is the best choice for your project.

Knitted vs. woven textiles

Construction

Woven fabrics are made on looms. These looms can be 54 inches wide and up. The main difference between knitted and woven fabrics is the way they are constructed. Fabrics are made with several warp threads (or longitudinal yarns) and weft threads (or weft-oriented yarns). Knitting involves the interlacing or interspersing of single yarns or threads.

How they stretch

A fabric stretches less because it is tightly woven with threads or separate yarns. Looms for woven fabrics usually work under tighter tension than knitting machines. Often woven fabrics stretch only on the diagonal, which is why they are the primary choice for upholstery. This leaves less room for the fabric to loosen and change shape when placed on furniture.

Knitted fabrics can stretch in many directions. This is because there is less tension in the knitting process and it is made up of a single yarn or thread. Note that your garment can move in many directions while your coach fabric is sturdy. If we choose woven fabrics for garments, we will have many stiffer t-shirts and pullovers.

Most common applications

Woven fabrics are more durable and less likely to lose color. This is because they have less contact with cleaning agents such as bleach and detergents.

Knitted fabrics are preferred for warmth, comfort and wrinkle resistant applications. Such as clothing. Knits have a softer feel, but may be less durable in the long run.

Choose woven fabrics for upholstery.

Choose knitted fabrics for apparel.