circularknitted

Circularknitted refers to fabric produced by circular knitting, a method in which yarn is transferred in continuous rounds on a circular knitting machine to form a tubular, seamless fabric. The term is commonly used to describe textiles knitted in the round as opposed to flat-knitted fabrics, which are produced in planar sheets and later joined.

Production is carried out on circular knitting machines that may be configured for single- or double-knit fabrics. The fabric is typically produced as tubes that can be cut open and seamed or left as seamless tubes for garments such as t-shirts, underwear, hats, and socks. Materials include natural fibers like cotton and wool, blends, and synthetics such as nylon and polyester. Stitch structures commonly include jersey, rib, and interlock, with the choice affecting elasticity, drape, and texture.

Circularknitted textiles often exhibit a jersey-like face with a smooth drape and a distinct knit side and purl side depending on the stitch structure. Because the fabric is formed in rounds, it can be inherently seamless; however, shaping to fit specific garments may require side seams or transfer techniques on more advanced circular machines.

Advantages of circularknitted fabrics include high production speed, uniform gauge, and seamless construction for certain garments. Limitations include restricted patterning and shaping options compared with flat knitting, as well as reliance on specialized equipment and skilled operators. The term is used across fashion, apparel manufacturing, and textile design to distinguish round-knitted textiles from flat-knit counterparts. See also knitting, flat knitting, jersey, rib, and seamless garment production.