What Are Interlock Fabrics & What Are They Used For?
Interlock fabric is a type of double-knit fabric and is also called double-knit fabric.
This fabric is created using two sets of needles, resulting in a thicker and identical side of the fabric. These two layers are connected by stitches that interlock with one another.
The process makes it stronger, more durable, and thicker than single-knit jerseys.
Interlock knit fabrics were developed in Germany in the early 1900s and quickly gained popularity due to its unique characteristics and versatility.
Initially used for underwear and hosiery, it became popular for sportswear and casual clothing in the 1940s.
Today, it is widely used in the fashion industry for a variety of clothing items, as well as for baby clothes, bedding, and home decor.
How Are Interlock Fabrics Made?
Interlock fabric is created by knitting two fabrics together. Usually, cotton, wool, spandex, and polyester are used. The interlocking of the two fabrics makes it reversible. Both sides of the fabric were also smooth.
It is a type of double-knit fabric that is thicker and more absorbent than regular knit fabric. It is created with two rows of stitches that are interlocked during the knitting process, resulting in a firm yet soft and smooth texture.
This fabric is naturally stretchy but retains its shape well. Interlock knit fabrics are versatile and comfortable, suitable for various uses.
Characteristics of Interlock Fabrics
Interlock fabrics are soft and comfortable.
This makes it perfect for clothing like t-shirts, dresses, and even children’s clothing.
Interlock fabrics are stretchy, breathable, and dry out fast.
Sportswear made with interlock fabric includes leggings, athletic t-shirts, and sports bras.
It is smooth and pill-resistant.
When making pillows and bed covers, you would have to choose a fabric that ensures comfort.
Unlike single-knit jerseys, interlock fabrics don’t curl.
When stretched, it returns to its original form.
What Is Interlock Fabric Made Of?
Interlock fabric can be made with 100% cotton, polyester, wool, and even spandex. Interlock is a method of knitting two fabrics together, and any material may be used. You can choose the material for your interlock textile that best suits your project.
What is Interlock Knit Fabric good for?
You can use these fabrics in clothes, like t-shirts, dresses, baby’s wear, or sportswear. But you can also use interlock textiles for your DIY projects. The thick yet soft and breathable interlock textile is great for making scarves, hats, and mittens.
Other than clothing, you can also use interlock textiles with upholstery. It is best used for custom-fit snug pieces when you want a stretchy and flexible material.
Pros and Cons of Interlock Knit Fabrics
It is prudent to know the pros and cons before using it to design your clothing. Every fabric has its pros and cons, but with this fabric, there are more pros than cons:
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable
- Durable and long-lasting
- Stretchy and flexible
- Resistant to pilling
Cons:
- Can be heavy and bulky
- May shrink or stretch without proper care
- May not be as breathable as other types of knit
What’s the Difference Between Single Knit and Double Knit?
Interlocking two ribbed textiles creates the interlock fabric. While only a single layer of fabric creates a jersey knit with one flat side and one textured side.
This single-layer fabric makes jerseys curl at the edges. Interlock knit is thicker and more stable as a result than jersey knit.
Interlock textiles are thicker, more stable, and have a more uniform texture. It is more stretchy and more durable than jersey textiles. This makes it a good fabric for sportswear. The interlock textile is more flexible and resilient than the jersey fabric.
How to Care for Interlock Fabric?
It is easy to care for clothing made with these fabrics. If your garment made with interlock cloth is made of 100% cotton, remember to pre-wash it as cotton tends to shrink a little. Pre-washing lets you see its condition before using it for your next project.
- Hot water also shrinks interlock textiles, so it is better to use cold water.
- Put your washing machine in the gentle cycle as it works better for knit fabrics.
- Use mild detergent. It is better to avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
- There are two ways to dry your interlock textile, tumble dry it but make sure it is on low heat to prevent any shrinking.
- When there’s enough space, you can air dry it, don’t place it under direct sunlight.
Following these instructions will ensure that your interlock cloth garments retain their shape. When you do iron it, do it on a low setting only if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is interlock fabric stretchy?
With two interlocking knits, interlock material is more stretchy than single-knit material. One way to test whether your fabric is interlocked or not is to stretch it. If the fabric returns to its original shape, you can be assured it is interlock fabric.
Is interlock a cotton fabric?
Interlock fabric can be made with 100% cotton. This makes clothes made of double-knit fabrics thicker, softer, and more comfortable. Being made with cotton also makes interlock cloths recyclable.
Is interlock fabric a polyester fabric?
From cotton to nylon, spandex, rayon, modal, tencel, and yes, polyester. Interlock textiles can be made in different fiber blends. Ease of care, water resistance, and moisture-wicking qualities make polyester interlock fabric popular.
Polyester spandex and nylon spandex double-knit fabrics are commonly used to make garments like leggings, sports bras and other athletic clothing.
Is interlock textile easy to sew?
Interlock fabric is the same on both sides, which makes it easier to sew. The reversible quality means you can start sewing on any side and still get the same quality fabric.
Conclusion
Double Knit fabrics are versatile and durable. You can use double-knit/interlock textiles for making different types of garments, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and sweatpants.
You can also use this fabric to start your DIY or Do-It-Yourself home decor project. If you want a custom-fit upholstery, double-knit fabrics are also a good choice.
The flexibility of the interlock fabric makes it easy for you to sew the material. Interlock retains its design, whichever side you want to start with. With proper care and handling, your interlock fabric will last a long time.
