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Knitting
is the second most frequently used method of fabric
construction. The popularity of knitting has grown
tremendously in recent years because of the increased
versatility of techniques, the adaptability of the many
new manmade fibres, and the growth in consumer demand
for wrinkle-resistant, stretchable, snug-fitting
fabrics, particularly in the greatly expanding areas of
sportswear and other casual wearing apparel. Today, the
usage of knitted fabrics ranges from hosiery, sweaters,
slacks, suits, and coats, to rugs and other home
furnishings. Hand knitting was an early
invention. The earliest known knitted fabric
was a pair of thick, hand-knitted wool socks
found in an Egyptian tomb, which probably
dated back to the fourth century B.C. |
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But the art of knitting seems to have been
perfected in Western Europe in the fifteenth
century. Hand knitting spread rapidly
throughout Europe within a few generations.
Primitive needles of bone or wood were first
used, producing a coarse mesh. The Spaniards
began to use steel needles, which produced a
closer mesh and a more evenly knit fabric.
In 1589, the Reverend William Lee, an
Englishman, invented the first knitting
machine. The machine was seen by the strong
guild of wool stocking hand knitters as a
thread to their livelihood. Today, knitting
is a complex industry, which has two main
areas, each of which has its subdivisions of
specializations. One area produces knitted
goods for apparel manufacturers, for sewing
centers for consumers, and for others. The other area produces completed
apparels such as hosiery and sweaters. Knitted fabrics
also give warmth because of the insulative air pockets
contained in this type of construction. |
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porous and provide “breathing” comfort because body
movements cause the loops to expand and contract, thus
pushing air through close-fitting garments. However
unless the fabric is heavily napped or foam laminated,
it is not windproof. These fabrics are very absorbent,
light in weight, and wrinkle-resistant. It is usually
unnecessary to iron them after packing and laundering.
However they may shrink considerably more than woven
fabrics unless special techniques and shrink proofing
processes, such as Pak-nit or Permasized, are used. |
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Certain
kinds of knitted fabric have one serious disadvantage:
if one of the loops breaks, a hole is made, which starts
a run. This can be eliminated by variation in the
stitch, which protects the fabric from raveling if any
single stitch is broken. Some knitted fabrics tend to
lose their shape and sag. This tendency can be avoided
by using a more closely constructed knit, giving the
yarn a tighter twist, and using such special techniques
as the double knit. The advantage of stretch ability in
knitted fabrics is an important consideration where fit
and comfort are concerned. |
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