What is the main difference between woven and knitted fabrics?

The main difference between woven and knitted fabrics lies in the way they are constructed. Woven fabrics are created by interlacing two sets of yarns – the warp (lengthwise) and the weft (crosswise) – at right angles to each other. This interlacing process results in a stable and durable fabric with distinct characteristics that depend on the type of weave used (like plain, twill, or satin).

On the other hand, knitted fabrics are produced by interlocking loops of yarn, a technique that gives them a stretchable and flexible quality. The nature of the loop structure in knitted fabrics allows them to be more elastic and comfortable, often making them suitable for garments like t-shirts and sweaters that need to accommodate body movement.

Recognizing this foundational difference in their construction methods highlights the unique properties and applications of each fabric type, influencing choices in fashion design and garment production.