Knits are at the heart of many textile designs, whether for clothing, accessories or home furnishings. They offer a wide range of properties depending on the materials used. This article explores not only common types of knits, but also the impact of luxurious natural fibres such as baby alpaca, mohair, wool and cashmere on knitted fabrics. These fibres, renowned for their softness and thermal qualities, are often synonymous with luxury and comfort.
Baby Alpaca Knit
Baby alpaca is a precious fiber coming from young alpacas, mainly raised in the Andes. This fiber is softer than classic wool, while being light and resistant.
- Features : Very soft and hypoallergenic, baby alpaca knit is appreciated for its unmatched comfort and its ability to maintain heat while remaining lightweight. It is also resistant to pilling, which gives it great durability.
- Uses : Scarves, sweaters, hats, high-end winter clothing.
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Mohair knit
Mohair comes from Angora goats and is distinguished by its luster and ability to add volume to a textile. Mohair knit is often blended with other fibers to increase its strength while maintaining its lightness.
- Characteristics : Mohair is shiny, elastic and very light. It is also insulating, making it an ideal fiber for winter clothing. Mohair knit is often slightly fluffy, giving it a vaporous appearance.
- Uses : Bulky sweaters, scarves, cardigans, blankets.
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Wool Knit
Wool is one of the most commonly used fibers in knitwear. It comes primarily from sheep and comes in a variety of qualities, from basic wool to more refined fibers like merino wool.
- Characteristics : Wool is thermoregulatory, retaining heat while allowing the skin to breathe. Strong and elastic, it lends itself well to winter clothing such as sweaters and jackets. Wool can be a little rough, although varieties such as merino wool are much softer.
- Uses : Sweaters, jackets, coats, hats, socks.
4. Cashmere knit
Cashmere is a luxurious fiber obtained from the down of the cashmere goat, raised in mountainous regions such as Tibet or Mongolia. It is one of the softest and most expensive fibers on the market.
- Features : Ultra-soft, lightweight and warm, cashmere is often considered the ultimate in comfort. Its knit is fine but insulating, making it ideal for elegant and refined winter clothing. Cashmere is also more fragile than other fibers, requiring more delicate care.
- Uses : Sweaters, scarves, cardigans, high-end accessories.
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Jersey knit
Jersey is a knitted fabric, often made of cotton or synthetic materials, but can also include natural fibers such as wool or cashmere.
- Features : Soft, stretchy and comfortable, jersey is ideal for casual or fitted clothing. It can be used for t-shirts, dresses or underwear. When cashmere or wool is blended, it gains warmth and texture while maintaining its flexibility.
- Uses : T-shirts, dresses, underwear, loungewear.
Ribbed Knit
Rib knit is used for pieces that require elasticity, such as cuffs, collars or edges. This type of knit, often made of wool or cotton, can also incorporate fibers such as cashmere or mohair for a more luxurious look.
- Characteristics : Very elastic and textured, this knit holds its shape well. It is often knitted to add comfort to fitted garments.
- Uses : Cuffs, collars, hats, sweaters.
Interlock mesh
Interlock is a thicker, double-sided knit that provides extra comfort and better insulation. It is particularly suitable for cold climates.
- Characteristics : Dense, soft and stretchy, interlock is often warmer than jersey and less likely to lose its shape over time. Fibers such as wool or baby alpaca can be incorporated to improve warmth and softness.
- Uses : Underwear, sleepwear, pajamas.
Milano mesh
Milano knit is a compact, elegant knit often used for more structured garments. Made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere, it offers a fluid drape and great resistance.
- Features : Thick and durable, Milano is less stretchy but offers excellent hold. Wool or cashmere fibers add to the comfortable feel while maintaining elegance.
- Uses : Jackets, dresses, pants.
Knits offer a variety of choices to meet a variety of needs, from everyday comfort to the luxury of natural fibers. Materials like baby alpaca , cashmere , wool and mohair bring unique benefits in terms of softness, warmth and elegance, while adding a premium dimension to any garment. Choosing the right knit depends on the specific needs in terms of comfort, warmth or style, but also on the fiber it is made of.
