Knits 101

Common Questions about Knit Fabrics

Q: What is a "knit" fabric?
A: Knit fabric is formed by knitting inter-meshing of loops of yarn creating a stretchable fabric.

Q: Where can I buy the fabrics you feature?
A: All of our fabrics are available on our website at GirlCharlee.com.

Q: What kinds of knit fabric does Girl Charlee sell and what do those names mean?
A: Here are the most common knit fabrics and a brief description of each.
  • Cotton Jersey: A loose, supple knit fabric comprised of natural cotton that is most popular in tee shirts. Jersey knit is known for its all-season comfort.
  • Cotton Lycra: Known for its smooth hand, excellent stretch and recovery, and all-season comfort.
  • Cotton Interlock: A double knit fabric that looks the same on both sides and is generally thicker and heavier than a single knit. It provides a great flat surface for printing or transferring designs.
  • Cotton Ribbed: A double-knit fabric in which the wales or vertical rows of stitches intermesh alternatively on the face and the back.
  • Jersey ITY: 92% Polyester/8% Lycra, Interlocking Twist Yarn jersey knit fabric. Ultra soft, does not wrinkle, has great stretch and drape. It is great for cloth diapering, activewear, dresses, tops, and more!
  • French Terry: Features looping and piling of the fabric on one side only and has a flat unlooped back. Best features of French Terry Knit Fabric is its stretch and could be called a stretchy or jersey terry cloth.
  • Cotton Thermal: A raised texture resembling the surface of a waffle in cotton. Typically used for cooler season sewing as fabric retains heat within waffle ridges.
  • Hacci Sweater: Sweater knits, also known as Hacci, have a more loopy, open-knit texture than regular cotton knits and are usually made of a cotton and wool, polyester, or spandex blends. They are wrinkle resistant and sew up just like regular knits!
  • Lycra Spandex: Perfect for swimwear and activewear application these fabrics have a heavier weight, very smooth hand, and have a four way stretch for added comfort and ease. Perfect for swimwear, sportswear, cycling shorts, yoga pants and tops, dance wear and more!
Q: What machines do you use to sew knits?
A: A regular sewing machine will do nicely.  A serger is a good machine for knits as it will cut and finish the edges while you sew.  It is not necessary to finish the edges as knits do not unravel, but it provides a nice professional appearance to your project.

This is a work in progress and we will be adding more and more helpful information.  If you have a question that isn't listed here or have any suggestions please email us here.