Designing Knitted Textiles

Synopsis

'Designing Knitted Textiles' guides readers through the fundamental skills of machine knitting, while encouraging them to be creative and experimental. It takes a contemporary approach, exploring the countless possibilities of machine-knitted textiles within multiple fashion contexts.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Knitted Textiles

* Discusses the history and evolution of knitting, from its origins to modern developments.
* Introduces different knit structures, including plain, rib, and interlock, and explains their basic principles.
* Explores the various materials used in knitting, including yarns, fibers, and blends.

Example: A plain knit fabric made from a wool-blend yarn, used for a warm and breathable sweater.

Chapter 2: Yarn Preparation and Properties

* Examines the different types of yarns available, such as spun yarns, plied yarns, and textured yarns.
* Discusses yarn properties, including fiber content, count, twist, and tensile strength.
* Explores the effects of yarn preparation and properties on the final knitted fabric.

Example: A garment knitted using a tightly twisted yarn, which creates a dense and durable fabric.

Chapter 3: Knit Stitch Formation

* Explains the mechanics of knit stitch formation, including the role of the needles and the way in which loops are created.
* Discusses different types of knit stitches, such as the knit stitch, the purl stitch, and the slip stitch.
* Demonstrates how stitch combinations can create a wide variety of patterns and textures.

Example: A decorative edging on a shawl, created using a combination of knit, purl, and cable stitches.

Chapter 4: Knit Structures and Fabric Properties

* Explores various knit structures, including jersey, rib, and Jacquard, and explains their distinct characteristics.
* Discusses the impact of knit structures on fabric properties, such as elasticity, drape, and breathability.
* Investigates the factors that influence fabric properties, including stitch density, yarn count, and finishing techniques.

Example: A breathable mesh fabric knitted using a jersey structure, suitable for summer clothing.

Chapter 5: Knitted Textile Design

* Introduces the principles of design for knitted textiles, including color theory, pattern development, and texture creation.
* Discusses the importance of considering both aesthetic and functional aspects when designing knitted fabrics.
* Explores the use of digital tools and software in the design process.

Example: A plaid knitted fabric, designed using a combination of different colored yarns and a houndstooth pattern.

Chapter 6: Knitted Textile Production

* Provides an overview of the knitted textile production process, including yarn preparation, knitting, and finishing.
* Discusses different knitting technologies, such as flatbed knitting, circular knitting, and warp knitting.
* Explores the environmental and sustainability considerations in knitted textile production.

Example: A garment made from a sustainably produced, recycled polyester yarn, knitted using a zero-waste production method.