Exploring Interlock Fabric: Manufacturing, Types, Properties

Finding fabrics suitable for all seasons can be quite a challenge. Even single-sided materials might not measure up if thicker alternatives are available. Interlock fabric is one such robust option.

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This fabric is characterized by its double-sided woven pattern featuring transparent color options. It is widely preferred for apparel and sportswear due to its versatility and appeal. Let’s delve into the features and manufacturing details of this smooth-textured fabric.

Understanding Interlock Fabric

Interlock Fabric is essentially a reversible knitted fabric that showcases a smooth finish on both sides. This fabric is particularly notable for its minimal curling at the edges. Exhibiting a thicker, strong construction with a moderate level of elasticity, interlock resembles honeycomb patterns and is often referred to as micro fabric, highlighting its breathable qualities. Additionally, this fabric undergoes chemical treatments to enhance its pilling resistance.

Characteristics of Interlock Knit Fabric

Interlock fabric is a unique knitted structure where both the upper and lower layers are identical. This results in a solid, layered feel. Commonly known as Double knit fabric or Interlock Jersey Fabric, the yarn types used in interlock fabric include cotton, polyester, and viscose. These 100% yarn fibers contribute to the fabric's extensive applications in skirts, dresses, polo shirts, t-shirts, outerwear, and sports gear.

The use of 100% cotton in interlock fabric stands out due to its eco-friendliness, softness, breathability, and stretchiness. Cotton interlock is ideal for creating warm clothing suitable for both hot and cold weather.

Knitting Process of Interlock Fabric

The creation of woven fabrics involves the intertwining of warp and weft threads, also known as perpendicular threads. In the case of interlock fabrics, the construction is achieved through interlocking loops of single threads.

This looping technique produces a balanced stretch fabric that offers excellent recovery. The loops shift smoothly with the fabric's movements, aided significantly by circular knitting machines. Interlock fabric stands out due to its comfort, durability, and distinctive manufacturing processes.

Composition of Interlock Fabric

Materials such as polyester, wool, bamboo, rayon, silk, and cotton contribute to the composition of interlock fabric. Some variants may consist of 100% polyester or blended combinations involving cotton and synthetic fibers. The inclusion of blended cotton, wool, and chlorine cotton enhances the fabric's attributes while fulfilling specific dimensional requirements.

The interlock structure consists of two rib types, showcasing qualities such as a soft touch, excellent elasticity, and a clear fabric surface. This makes interlock fabric perfect for sewing applications such as sweaters, outerwear, and vests.

Manufacturing Process

The production of interlock fabric involves the use of stainless steel needles that interlace alternately. This technique yields a double-knit fabric that is undeniably soft, with matching colors and patterns on either side.

Further processes such as brushing (for cotton interlock) help increase warmth and comfort, while ironing stabilizes the fabric by smoothing out knitting tensions. Ironing employs steam and metal cylinders for optimal results.

Interlock Machine Specifications

Interlock fabric is typically produced using a circular knitting process. A standard 100% polyester interlock fabric generally registers at 145 GSM. The interlocking machine is designed with opposite-gating for needles. Its speed is high, supported by multiple feeders with a closed cam track, typically operating within gauges of 20-24 npi using 1/48 Nm worsted threads.

Different Types of Interlock Fabric

Interlock fabric comes in various types, including:

Cotton Interlock: Known for its 100% softness and breathability, cotton interlock fabric is perfect for everyday clothing. It boasts excellent moisture absorption and ventilation, ensuring comfort for the wearer. Not limited to everyday textiles, it is also utilized in baby wear and undergarments.

Polyester Interlock: This synthetic variant is made from petroleum, showcasing resilience and resistance to shrinking, making it an ideal choice for sportswear that needs to stay dry and breathable.

Nylon Interlock: Often blended with spandex, nylon interlock offers durability and flexibility, making it a popular choice for activewear.

Bamboo-Rayon Interlock: Eco-friendly and gaining popularity, this type emphasizes breathability and antibacterial properties, suitable for intimate apparel.

Modal Interlock: Made from beech tree cellulose, modal interlock fabric presents luxurious softness, drape, and color retention, often favored in high-end clothing.

Properties of Interlock Fabric

Interlock fabric is highly recognized for its durability and various beneficial physical and chemical properties, as detailed below:

• Composition: Polyester, wool, silk, and cotton.
• Durability: Highly durable.
• Pilling Resistance: Excellent.
• Breathability: Outstanding.
• Moisture Absorption: Efficient.
• Sweat Volatility: Adequate.
• Elasticity: Good.
• Wear and Tear Resistance: Strong.
• Color Fastness: High; provides vivid colors.
• Stretch: Moderately stretchy.
• Prone to Tear: Minimal.
• Common Uses: Apparel, sportswear, and children's clothing.

Key Characteristics of Interlock Fabric

• Compact: The fabric's compact nature allows it to trap air, enhancing insulation and breathability.
• Versatile: Ideal for various clothing items, especially winter apparel.
• Textural Weight: Ranges from 150 to 450 GSM, naturally heavier than similar fabrics.
• Anti-Pilling Properties: Generally achieves grades of 3 to 4.
• Pleasant to Touch: Offers a soft, airy feel, catering to high comfort standards.
• Moisture Wicking: The fabric efficiently wicks moisture, making it a preferred choice for activewear.
• Stretch and Recovery: Excellent stretchability for all-day comfort and movement.

Applications of Interlock Fabric

Interlock fabric excels in applications for activewear and sublimation printing. It is extensively used in dress wear, skirts, underwear, and is increasingly adopted for children’s clothing and t-shirts.

• Apparel: Ideal for long and short sleeves, sports jerseys, and longjohns.
• Comfort Wear: Featured in tops, t-shirts, and dresses.
• Activewear: Used for fitness-related clothing.
• Baby Clothing: Child-friendly garments.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the advantages of Interlock Fabric?

Interlock fabric is beneficial for various reasons, such as:

• Superior thickness.
• Smooth surface finish.
• Minimal curling at edges.
• Comparative flexibility.
• Symmetrical appearance on either side.
• Ease of use in sewing.
• Affordable.

How stretchy is Interlock fabric?

The degree of stretch in interlock fabric primarily depends on its construction. Generally, it retains shape well after washing.

Is Interlock Fabric suitable for summer?

Yes, interlock fabric possesses superior heat insulation properties, with an air layer insulating between its surfaces, making it warmer than single-yarn knitted fabrics.

Conclusion

Interlock fabric, with its knitting structure, provides remarkable comfort, breathability, and moisture absorption. Available in various rib knits, interlock is also compound in nature.

Notably sustainable and eco-friendly, especially with bamboo and rayon blends, interlock fabric caters to diverse style preferences. Its thickness and the quality of materials contribute to its growing popularity across the fashion and apparel sectors.