Knitwear combines natural fibres, carefully selected yarns and specialist knitting techniques to create garments that offer warmth, comfort and lasting style. From the yarn used to the way it is knitted, every stage contributes to how a finished garment looks and feels.
In this guide, we'll explore how knitwear is made, explain some of the most common knitting techniques and take a closer look at three of the natural fibres used in Country Collection knitwear: Merino wool, Lambswool and Shetland wool.
What Is Knitwear?
Knitwear is made by interlocking loops of yarn to create a flexible fabric.
Unlike woven fabrics, which are made by crossing threads over and under one another, knitted fabrics are formed from connected loops. This gives knitwear its characteristic stretch, softness and flexibility.
The final result depends on several factors, including the type of fibre, the yarn weight, the knitting technique and the way the garment is finished.
This is why two wool jumpers can feel completely different even though they are both made from wool.
How Is Knitwear Made?
Although modern knitting technology is highly sophisticated, the basic principle remains the same: yarn is formed into a series of interlocking loops to create fabric.
The process begins with the fibre, which is spun into yarn. The yarn is then knitted using specialist machinery to create the required fabric structure.
Once the knitted fabric has been created, it can be shaped into individual garment pieces or knitted to shape. These pieces are then assembled and finished to create the final jumper, cardigan or other knitted garment.
The fibre, yarn and knitting technique all influence the finished result.
From Fibre to Yarn
Before wool can become knitwear, it needs to be prepared and spun into yarn.
Natural wool fibres are collected, cleaned and processed before being spun. During spinning, individual fibres are twisted together to create a continuous yarn.
The thickness and construction of the yarn can vary considerably. Fine yarns can create lightweight, delicate knitwear, while thicker yarns can produce heavier, more textured garments.
The way the yarn is spun also affects the character of the finished knit.
How Does Knitting Create Different Textures?
Different knitting techniques and stitch patterns create different appearances, textures and levels of stretch.
Jersey Knit
Jersey is a smooth, versatile knitted structure commonly used for lightweight garments. It creates a soft, flexible fabric that is comfortable for everyday wear.
Rib Knit
Rib knitting creates raised vertical lines and gives the fabric additional stretch. It is commonly used for cuffs, necklines and fitted knitwear.
Cable Knit
Cable knitting creates raised, twisted patterns across the fabric. Traditionally associated with warm, practical knitwear, cable designs add texture and visual interest.
Waffle Knit
Waffle knitting creates a textured surface resembling a small grid or honeycomb. Its texture gives the fabric a distinctive appearance and makes it particularly suited to cosy knitwear.
The knitting technique is only one part of the story, however. The fibre used to make the yarn can make just as much difference to the finished garment.
