There are various types of stitches commonly used in
cotton knitted fabrics, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common stitch types along with their characteristics:
Single Jersey Stitch:
Characteristics: Simple and widely used stitch, resulting in a smooth face and a textured back. It tends to curl at the edges. Good stretch and recovery, making it suitable for T-shirts and lightweight garments.
Rib Stitch:
Characteristics: Rib stitches have vertical columns of knit and purl stitches, creating a stretchy fabric that is often used for cuffs, collars, and waistbands. Variations include 1x1, 2x2, and other ratios, each affecting the appearance and stretch of the fabric.
Purl Stitch:
Characteristics: The reverse of the knit stitch, purl stitches create a bumpy texture on the face of the fabric. Purl stitches are often used in combination with knit stitches to create various textures and patterns.
Garter Stitch:
Characteristics: Created by knitting every row, garter stitch produces a fabric with ridges on both sides. It doesn't curl and is reversible. Often used for scarves, blankets, and textured patterns.
Seed Stitch:
Characteristics: An alternating pattern of knit and purl stitches in a single row, creating a textured, nubby fabric. It doesn't curl and is reversible, making it useful for items where both sides are visible.
Tuck Stitch:
Characteristics: Involves lifting a stitch from the previous row and knitting it together with the current stitch. Tuck stitches create a textured pattern, often used for creating interesting design elements.
Cable Stitch:
Characteristics: Involves crossing stitches over each other to create cable patterns. Cable stitches are used to add decorative elements to the fabric, often seen in sweaters and accessories.
Lace Stitch:
Characteristics: Lace stitches involve creating intentional holes in the fabric by increasing and decreasing stitches. They create an open, airy texture, commonly used in lightweight garments and accessories.
Interlock Stitch:
Characteristics: Created by alternating two sets of needles, interlock stitches produce a double-faced fabric with a smooth surface on both sides. The fabric is stable, doesn't curl, and is often used for items like dresses and tops.
Jacquard Stitch:
Characteristics: Jacquard stitches allow for intricate designs and patterns to be knitted into the fabric. Multiple colors and stitches are used to create detailed images or motifs.
Double-Knit Stitch:
Characteristics: Similar to interlock, double-knit stitches create a reversible fabric with two smooth sides. It's often thicker and warmer than other knit structures.