Cut & Sew Knit Exploration 

Definition: Jersey is a fabric knitted with a single yarn on a single set of needles, resulting in the yarn looping in one direction. When cut, the edges of jersey fabric will roll. Jersey stretches across its width unless the threads are elastic and can begin to "run" if snagged.

Use: Jersey fabric is a versatile, stretchy material commonly used in clothing due to its soft texture and excellent drape. Made from cotton, synthetic fibers, or a blend, it is ideal for t-shirts, dresses, and activewear, offering comfort and flexibility for everyday wear. Jersey's breathable nature and natural elasticity make it perfect for garments that require a close fit and ease of movement, while its ability to retain shape and resist wrinkles adds to its practicality in fashion and home textiles like bed linens.

Definition: Interlock resembles the flat side of a single jersey but can be identified by its identical appearance on both sides. Made with two sets of needles, it locks the purl sides of the knit together, resulting in a thicker and less stretchy fabric compared to regular jersey. Interlock is more stable and does not curl at the edges. 

Use: Interlock knit is a double-knit fabric known for its durability, thickness, and smooth texture on both sides. It is commonly used for making high-quality, comfortable garments like t-shirts, dresses, and baby clothing. The fabric's structure provides excellent stretch and recovery, making it ideal for fitted clothing that requires a bit of flexibility. Interlock knit is also breathable and soft, making it suitable for items worn close to the skin, such as loungewear and sleepwear. Its substantial weight and resistance to pilling make it a popular choice for garments that need to maintain their shape and appearance over time.

Definition: A rib knit features vertical textured lines across the fabric. It is produced industrially with a double bed knitting machine, which creates a continuous sequence of alternating knit and purl stitches. Rib knits do not roll and offer significantly more stretch across their width than jersey fabrics. This makes them ideal for openings of garments such as necklines, cuffs, and hems, although they can also be used for entire garments.

Use: Rib knit fabric is a highly elastic material characterized by its distinct vertical ribbed pattern, created by alternating knit and purl stitches. This structure gives it excellent stretch and recovery, making it ideal for garments that need to fit snugly, such as cuffs, collars, waistbands, and form-fitting tops. Rib knit is soft, comfortable, and provides a close fit without losing shape, making it a popular choice for casual wear and loungewear. Its flexibility and ability to retain warmth also make it suitable for layering pieces and winter clothing.

Definition: Tricot is a type of warp knit fabric characterized by lengthwise ribs on one side and crosswise ribs on the other. Made exclusively from filament yarn, it requires uniform diameter for production. The fabric is constructed with parallel rows of loops interlocking in a zigzag pattern. Tricot is breathable, wrinkle-resistant, durable, moisture-wicking, and resistant to snags. It is firm and sturdy like woven fabric but offers more crosswise stretch.

Use: Tricot is a smooth, lightweight knit fabric characterized by its fine texture and slight sheen. Made primarily from synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester, tricot is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to wrinkles. It's commonly used in lingerie, activewear, and swimwear due to its soft feel, breathability, and ability to stretch while maintaining its shape. Tricot’s smooth surface and excellent drape also make it a popular choice for lining garments, adding comfort without bulk. Its quick-drying properties and resilience make it a practical and versatile fabric for various applications.