What are the differences between knitted weft knitting and warp knitting

Release time: 2025-08-04

What are the differences between knitted weft knitting and warp knitting

Knitted weft knitting and warp knitting are two common knitting techniques that have significant differences in multiple aspects, which can be distinguished from the following key points:

Yarn direction

During weft knitting, the yarn is fed along the transverse direction of the fabric, just like beads. One yarn is woven back and forth horizontally to form a piece of fabric; Warping is the process of arranging multiple yarns along the longitudinal direction of a fabric and weaving them simultaneously, with each yarn forming a longitudinal coil chain

Elasticity and Structure

The connection between the loops of weft knitted fabric is relatively loose, so it has good elasticity and can quickly rebound after stretching. However, if one loop breaks, the surrounding area may also detach; Knitted fabrics have a tighter structure, almost no elasticity in the longitudinal direction, and strong stability. Even if a few coils are broken, they are not easily scattered over a large area

Device

The commonly used knitting machines for weft knitting are circular knitting machines and horizontal knitting machines. Circular knitting machines can weave cylindrical fabrics, such as those used for making T-shirts, while horizontal knitting machines are suitable for weaving shaped pieces like sweaters. They are flexible to operate and easy to change patterns; The warp knitting machine is used, which has a more complex structure and can weave wide fabrics, suitable for making fabrics with complex patterns

Purpose

Wevet fabric is very suitable for making close fitting clothes, such as underwear, T-shirts, sportswear, and most of the sweaters we wear are also made of weft weave due to its softness and good elasticity; Knitted fabric is firm and not easily deformed, commonly used for outerwear fabrics, curtains, sofa covers, and some industrial filter cloths also use knitted fabric

Production characteristics

When producing weft knitting, if you want to change the color or pattern, it can be adjusted quickly and is suitable for small batch and multi variety production; Warping is more suitable for large-scale continuous production. If you want to change the pattern or style, there are many areas that need to be adjusted, and the cost is also relatively high

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