Warp-knitted fabrics are popular in textiles due to their stability and range of styles, especially made from synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, and polypropylene. Occasionally, natural fibres like cotton, wool, silk, and linen, as well as blends, are also used. Common knitting patterns in warp-knitted fabrics include tricot, raschel, satin, and twill weaves, which give different appearances and functionalities. These fabrics are dimensionally stable, resilient, breathable, and resistant to fraying or curling, though they typically offer less horizontal stretch, elasticity, and softness than weft-knitted fabrics.
Part 1: Jacquard Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Jacquard warp-knitted fabrics are created using both natural and synthetic fibres. These fabrics have intricate, three-dimensional patterns with a clear texture, achieved through the warp knitting process on specialized machines. After dyeing and finishing, jacquard fabrics are sturdy, drape well, and have varied designs. Common uses include women’s outerwear, lingerie, and dresses due to the fabric's elegance and durability.
Part 2: Loop Pile Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Loop pile fabrics in warp knitting incorporate ground yarns from synthetic fibres and weft yarns from cotton or cotton-synthetic blends. The loops are created using natural, regenerated, or synthetic fibres, forming a single- or double-sided pile of fabric. This type is soft and thick, with good elasticity, moisture absorption, and warmth. It’s used frequently in sportswear, T-shirts with collars, pyjamas, and children’s clothing for its comfort and durability.
Part 3: Velvet Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Velvet warp-knitted fabrics, usually produced on Raschel machines, consist of a base layer and plush pile yarns. Made from synthetic or natural fibers, velvet undergoes a cutting process to create two single-ply velvet pieces. Available in various styles like plain velvet, ribbed velvet, and jacquard velvet, these fabrics are plush, soft, and warm, making them ideal for winter apparel and children’s clothing.
Part 4: Mesh Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Mesh warp-knitted fabrics are made from synthetic, regenerated, or natural fibers, using modified tricot structures to create open holes in shapes such as squares, circles, diamonds, hexagons, or wavy patterns. Mesh fabrics are typically lightweight, elastic, and highly breathable, with a smooth and sturdy texture. Often used in summer clothing, these fabrics are popular for men’s and women’s shirts due to their lightness and airiness.
Part 5: Flocked Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Flocked warp-knitted fabrics often use polyester or viscose as the base, with chain structures interspersed with specialized flocked patterns. Post-processing involves a brushing technique that gives a fuzzy texture, similar to wool, with a dense pile and soft, resilient hand feel. These fabrics drape well, are easy to clean, and resist wrinkles, although they may accumulate static and attract dust. Variants include sueded and bright pile fabrics. For their warmth and durability, flocked fabrics are often used in winter coats, windbreakers, jackets, trousers, and overcoats.
Part 6: Polyester Warp-Knitted Fabrics
Polyester warp-knitted fabrics are made from low-elasticity polyester filaments, either uniform or mixed in thickness, resulting in a blend of tricot and pile structures. Available in plain and patterned varieties, polyester warp knits are known for their vibrant colours, smooth surface, and versatility in thickness, from thin, shirt-weight fabrics to thicker outerwear materials. They’re used in shirts, skirts, coats, windbreakers, suits, and pants for both men and women.
Warp-knitted fabrics are diverse, adaptable, and practical for various textile applications, from sportswear to fashion garments. They offer significant stability, resilience, and breathability advantages, though they generally lack the stretch and softness of weft-knitted fabrics. With innovative knitting technologies, warp-knitted fabrics continue to evolve, meeting the demands of both functional and fashion-forward applications.
