Understanding T-Shirt Fabrics: Knits and Construction

Understanding T-Shirt Fabrics: A Knitter’s Guide

Description: Jersey knit is the most popular type of fabric used for t-shirts.
Construction:
- It’s a single knit fabric with a smooth surface on one side and textured loops on the back.
- The smooth side is what you see when you wear the t-shirt.
Characteristics:
- Softness: Jersey knit feels comfortable against the skin.
- Stretch: It has a slight stretch, making it ideal for casual wear.
- Versatility: Perfect for everyday tees and lightweight tops.

Description:
- Interlock knit consists of two layers of threads that are interlocked together.
- It’s a strong and durable fabric.
Characteristics:
- Strength: Interlock knit holds up well over time.
- Moderate Stretch: It provides a little stretch, ensuring a comfortable fit.
- Ideal Uses: Great for t-shirts that need to withstand frequent washing and wear.

Description:
- Rib knit features vertical stripes on both the front and back.
- It creates a textured surface.
Characteristics:
- Structure: Rib knit has a more defined texture due to the vertical ribbing.
- Stretch: It offers moderate stretch.
- Stylish: Often used for cuffs, collars, and hemlines.

Fiber Content:
- Consider the fiber content of your old t-shirt:
  - 100% Cotton: Perfect for t-shirt yarn.
  - 50% Polyester/50% Cotton: Good choice.
  - 70% Cotton/30% Viscose: Not ideal.
  - 95% Cotton/5% Elastane/Spandex: Also not great.
Side Seams:
- Check if the t-shirt has side seams.
- Side seams make the t-shirt yarn harder to work with, as they yield less yarn.
- You’ll need to join the strips more frequently.