What Is Knit Fabric?
If you take a peek inside your closet, chances are a good portion of your favorite pieces are made from knit fabric. There’s a reason for that—knits are comfortable, forgiving, and endlessly versatile. They stretch when you move, bounce back into shape, and drape in ways that flatter. In short, they’re the kind of fabrics we reach for day after day.
But what exactly makes a fabric a “knit”? And why does it feel so different from a crisp woven cotton or linen? Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes a Fabric a Knit?
Knit fabric is created by looping yarns together, almost like tiny rows of interlocking chains. Traditionally this was done by hand with needles, but today most knits are produced on modern knitting machines that can create everything from soft T-shirts to sleek activewear.
The beauty of knits is in their elastic nature. They naturally stretch and recover, making them quick to produce and easy to wear. That’s why your coziest sweaters, your go-to yoga leggings, and even your favorite baby onesies are often knits.
Types of Knit Fabrics We Love
Jersey Knit
The classic. Jersey knit fabric is lightweight, smooth, and everywhere. It’s what most of us think of when we picture a T-shirt or a casual summer dress. Jersey drapes softly, is breathable, and even works beautifully for baby clothes.
Lace Knit
Delicate and feminine, lace knits combine the elegance of lace with the stretch of knit. Think tops, special-occasion dresses, or layering pieces. They do need a little extra care—hand-wash or use the delicate cycle, and always air dry to keep the fabric intact.
Hatchi Knit
If you love the softness of cotton but wish it felt smoother, Hatchi knit is a dream. Made from cotton blends with polyester or spandex, Hatchi knits resist wrinkles, stretch comfortably, and come in endless colors and prints. Perfect for dresses, skirts, and tops.
Techno Knit
A sturdier knit with a bit of sheen, techno knit fabric has structure and flow. It’s ideal for fitted dresses and skirts that need to hold their shape but still move with you. Thanks to its polyester and spandex content, it’s durable, easy to wash, and even works well for lounge or yoga wear.
Knit vs. Woven: How to Tell the Difference
Not sure whether a fabric is knit or woven? Here are a few simple tests:
- Stretch: Knits stretch easily in one or both directions; woven fabrics generally don’t.
- Wrinkle Test: Crush the fabric in your hand. Woven fabrics wrinkle, while knits usually bounce right back.
- Fit: Clothes made from knits contour to your body with softer edges, while woven garments hold sharper lines and structure.
Why We Love Knits
From breezy jersey tops to elegant lace layers and structured techno dresses, knit fabrics prove their versatility again and again. They’re comfortable, easy to care for, and designed to move with you—qualities that make them just as essential in our sewing rooms as they are in our wardrobes.
At The Fabric Hoarder, we like to think of knits as the fabrics that make everyday living just a little more effortless.
