Knit Fabrics for Every Season: Choosing the Right Weight and Material

Knit fabrics have become an everyday staple due to their comfort and versatility. Knits are well-produced by looping yarns together and by forming an elastic structure. The unique construction makes knit fabrics an ideal tool for various activities. All these are possible by choosing the right weight and material in the form of texture, weight, and design. Knits are now essential in terms of fashion, functionality, and comfort. 

What are Knit Fabrics?

Knit fabrics refer to the textiles created by interlocking loops of yarn using the process of knitting. This method is different from weaving as threads are woven together at the right angles. Besides, knit fabrics form a stretchy and flexible fabric structure involving various techniques.

Knit fabrics can be made from both natural and synthetic fibers. Hence, these fabrics are versatile for use in a variety of garments making them suitable for almost every season. 

Choosing the Right Weight of Knit Fabric

Fabric weight denotes how heavy or light a fabric is. This is also true for knit fabric. Usually, the weight of any fabric is measured in Grams per Square Meter (gsm). Sometimes, it is measured in ounces per square yard. Fabric weight is crucial as it influences drape, durability, and functionality. 

The knitting method requires more fibers or threads compared to weaving. Consequently, the method results in weight as well. Knit fabric features spandex and lycra and adds extra weight. Besides, knit fabric with a specific weight can be lightweight. Although the correct weight is not the sole indicator, knit fabrics greatly influence weight, depending on the choice of garments in each season. 

Here are three overall types of knit fabrics: Lightweight, Midweight, and Heavyweight. For instance: 

• Lightweight: Lightweight knits tend to weigh less than four ounces per yard. These knits are thin and airy. They make the clothing ideal for warm weather. Lightweight knits have a soft and fluid drape.
• Midweight: Midweight ranges from 4-8 ounces per yard. This weight type offers a subtle balance between warmth and breathability. Midweight knits are suitable for transitional seasons as well. Depending on the fiber content, they offer moderate drapes and flowy structures.
• Heavyweight: Knits that are heavyweight weigh more than 8 ounces per yard. These fabrics are thick and warm. Usually, fleece and thick wool are heavyweight knits. 

Different Knit Fabric Materials 

Knit materials can be drawn from a pool of various fibers. Each material has its properties and applications. For instance:

• Cotton: Since cotton is a natural fiber, it has the most use in knit fabrics. For warmer climates or summer seasons, cotton can play a definite role in being soft, breathable, and absorbent. Mostly in summer dresses and casual wear, cotton has got its best uses.
• Wool: Wool has excellent properties of retaining heat and moisture-wicking features. It is different in texture from the softer merino wool. However, in terms of warmth and insulation, wool can be beneficial for outdoor clothing.

• Spandex: Spandex is heavily used as a synthetic fiber in knit fabric material. It has good elasticity properties. Spandex is added to knit fabrics in terms of blend to provide better flexibility in form-fitting clothing. Spandex is used in activewear, swimwear, and leggings.

Season-Specific Knit Fabric Material Types

There are different knit fabrics applicable for different seasons, from Spring to Winter. In the following section, some of the materials are mentioned:

Spring: Requires Warmth and Breathability

Usually, Spring keeps a balance between keeping you warm and allowing you enough breathability through materials. 

1. Cotton Jersey Knit: Cotton jersey weighs between light to medium with a 100% cotton blend. It is ideal for springtime because of its softness, comfort, and breathability properties. Cotton jersey applies to the making of T-shirts, and casual dresses. A little blend of spandex can increase the elasticity of the material as well.
2. Linen Knit: Linen knit is another type of knit fabric that promotes lightweight. This material has a slightly open weave that allows airflow and light coverage. Linen knits are excellent for cardigans and other layering pieces. 

Summer: Requires Lightweight and Breathable Knit Types

1. Rayon Jersey Knit: In summer, breathable fabrics are a top need. They allow enough air circulation and moisture-wicking properties to stay calm. Hence, Rayon Jersey knits are a definite type of material that is lightweight. It drapes beautifully with a blend of spandex. The material provides a slight stretch and enhances comfort. 
2. Mesh Knit: Mesh knit is a lightweight material with maximum airflow. Mesh knits are perfect for sportswear. They ensure breathability and wick away moisture. The primary materials for mesh knits are polyester, nylon, and a blend of both. They are commonly used in athletic cases. 

Fall: Requires Medium Weight Knits

1. Merino Wool Knit: Merino wool is a soft wool with a temperature-regulating feature. It is not a scratchy fabric that makes you uncomfortable. Instead, this knit is a perfect combination of base layers that keep you cozy from getting overheated. 
2. Interlocked Double Knit: Double knit fabrics are thick,, and they provide additional warmth. These fabrics are excellent for structured materials to offer excellent durability. 

Winter: Requires Insulating Knits

1. Wool Knit: Wool knits are staples for winter. They are well-known for effectively trapping heat. Hence, this feature makes it perfect for the coldest months. In most cases, wool knits are ideal for making sweaters, hats, and scarves.
2. Fleece Knit: Fleece knits weigh heavy. This fabric is soft and plushy. Also, the fabric retains heat. Fleece knit has the primary material- polyester in the making. Fleece, with its brushed surface, traps air and keeps the wearer warm in cold temperatures.

Importance of Choosing the Right Knit Fabric

Selecting the suitable knit fabric for a particular season is a whole new task. Because it not only allows to right balance between properties but also provides the opportunity to ensure comfort.

While air circulation and warmth are essential things to look for, the suitable knit fabric can be tailored to each season.

1. Comfort: Knit fabrics can provide comfort and a pleasant feeling as they can go against the skin. These fabrics can influence wearability and satisfaction. The texture of the fabric, the stretch, and the weight all ensure ease of movement and additional comfort.
2. Functionality: Choosing the right weight and material of the knit fabric is essential as it influences how the fabric performs in terms of function. Certain types of knits wick away moisture from the skin during physical activities. These types sometimes require synthetic blends as well.
3. Breathability: Breathability allows air circulation and helps to regulate body temperature as well as body moisture. But whether the knit fabric is breathable depends on selecting the right weight and material.
4. Insulation: Insulation reflects the ability of the fabric to retain heat and keep the wearer from harm. These fabrics wick moisture away and maintain warmth during winter. 
5. Aesthetic: The correct weight and the type of material have a direct impact on how the garments would drape on the body. Lighter knits provide softness, whereas heavier knits provide a definite structure. Overall, garment aesthetics also depend on warmth as well. 
6. Durability: The correct weight and material have a direct impact on the fabric’s holding up on the body. It also focuses on whether the fabric requires repeated washing. With the addition of synthetic blends, knit fabric may offer better durability compared to natural fiber fabrics. 

Conclusion

Knit fabrics are already a popular choice for garments that can be worn year-round. The practice can be maximized with the potential of knits depending on the selection of the right fabric weight and material for each of the seasons. From lightweight knits for summer to insulating knits for winter, knit fabrics’ weight and fiber content influence a lot of fabric's performance. Other factors are breathability, aesthetics, insulation, and style.