Difference between Knitted and Woven Fabric?

Knitted and Woven Fabrics are two primary types of fabric constructions used in the textile industry, and they differ significantly in their structure, characteristics, and uses. 

Here’s a comparison between the two:

1. Structure and Construction

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Construction: Created by inter looping yarns using needles. The loops of yarn form rows (courses) and columns (wales), giving the fabric its stretchy nature.
  • Flexibility: More flexible and elastic due to the looped structure, which allows the fabric to stretch in multiple directions (depending on the type of knit).

• Woven Fabric:

• • Construction: Made by interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles to each other – the warp (vertical yarns) and the weft (horizontal yarns). This crisscross pattern creates a more rigid structure.
  • Stability: Less flexible and more stable, with limited stretch (mainly along the bias, or diagonal direction). Woven fabrics generally hold their shape better than knits.

2. Stretchability

• Knitted Fabric:

• • High Stretchability: Can stretch both horizontally and vertically, making it comfortable for close-fitting garments like t-shirts, leggings, and underwear.
  • Recovery: Often returns to its original shape after being stretched, especially in fabrics with elastane (spandex) content.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Limited Stretch: Typically does not stretch unless the fabric includes elastane or is cut on the bias. The lack of stretch makes woven fabrics ideal for structured garments like trousers, blazers, and dress shirts.
  • Rigid Structure: Holds its shape well but can wrinkle or crease more easily compared to knits.

3. Breathability and Comfort

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Breathability: Generally more breathable due to the open, porous structure created by the loops, allowing air to circulate more freely.
  • Softness: Typically softer and more comfortable to wear, making it suitable for casual wear and clothing that requires ease of movement.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Breathability: Can be less breathable, especially if the weave is tight, though this varies depending on the type of weave (e.g., twill, satin).
  • Crispness: Often feels crisper or firmer, making it ideal for garments that need to maintain a polished, formal look.

4. Durability

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Durability: Generally less durable than woven fabrics because the loops can snag, pull, or unravel, leading to holes or runs in the fabric.
  • Pilling: More prone to pilling (formation of small balls of fiber on the surface) due to friction.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Durability: Typically more durable and resistant to wear and tear, as the tight interlacing of yarns provides strength.
  • Resistance to Pilling: Less likely to pill compared to knits, especially in high-quality weaves.

5. Uses and Applications

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Clothing: Commonly used in garments that require flexibility and comfort, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, underwear, socks, activewear, and sweaters.
  • Home Textiles: Used in items like blankets, sheets, and knitted throws.
  • Technical Textiles: Often used in stretchable medical textiles, sportswear, and other functional clothing due to its elasticity.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Clothing: Ideal for structured garments like jeans, trousers, shirts, jackets, dresses, and suits, where stability and shape retention are important.
  • Home Textiles: Widely used for upholstery, curtains, bed linens, and tablecloths.
  • Industrial Uses: Employed in making durable items like tents, sails, and protective clothing.

6. Fabric Weight and Drape

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Weight: Typically lighter and more flexible, resulting in a fabric that drapes well over the body, conforming to its shape.
  • Drape: Has a softer drape, making it ideal for garments that require a fluid, relaxed silhouette.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Weight: Can vary widely, from lightweight chiffons to heavy denims, but generally has a more substantial feel.
  • Drape: Depending on the weave and weight, woven fabrics can either drape well or be more rigid, creating structured, tailored looks.

7. Care and Maintenance

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Care: Often requires gentle washing and care to avoid stretching or distortion. Some knits are prone to shrinking or losing shape if not handled properly.
  • Maintenance: May need special handling to prevent snags or pilling.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Care: Typically easier to care for, though it depends on the fiber content. Woven fabrics can generally withstand more rigorous washing and ironing.
  • Maintenance: Holds up well over time, though some weaves (like linen) may require frequent ironing to maintain a smooth appearance.

8. Cost and Production

• Knitted Fabric:

• • Cost: Can be more cost-effective to produce, especially for items made in bulk, as knitting machines can produce fabric continuously.
  • Production Time: Generally faster to produce and can be made in a seamless, tubular form, reducing waste.

• Woven Fabric:

• • Cost: Can be more expensive to produce, especially for intricate weaves or high-quality materials.
  • Production Time: Takes longer to produce due to the weaving process and may involve more complex machinery.

Summary:

Knitted fabrics are known for their stretchability, comfort, and softness, making them ideal for casual and form-fitting garments. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, are valued for their durability, structure, and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from formal wear to home textiles. The choice between knitted and woven fabrics depends on the specific requirements of the garment or textile product.