knits

Knits refer to fabrics produced by interlooping yarns through knitting, either by hand or by machine. In contrast to woven textiles, knits are formed from continuous loops, which gives them greater elasticity and drape. The two primary families are weft knits, produced by a horizontal series of loops across the fabric, and warp knits, produced from a vertical series of interlaced loops; warp knits tend to be more stable and less prone to runs. Weft-knitted fabrics are common for apparel and accessories, with jersey (a basic stockinette) and rib or garter as well-known patterns.

Common yarns include natural fibers such as wool, cotton, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers like acrylic and nylon, or blends. Knitting can be done by hand with needles or with industrial machines. Garments and items made from knits include sweaters, T-shirts, socks, hats, scarves, and stretchy dress fabrics. Knits can be engineered for different properties through choice of stitch, gauge, and fiber; for example, jersey is smooth and tends to curl at the edges, rib knits are highly elastic, and garter stitch lies flat.

Historically, knitting developed in various regions and became widespread in Europe by the late medieval period. Industrialization in the 18th–19th centuries introduced machine knitting, enabling mass production of knit fabrics and clothing. In modern textiles, knits are used in fashion, sportswear, performance textiles, and technical applications, including medical and automotive fabrics. Care varies by fiber but often includes gentle washing and laying flat or hanging to dry to preserve shape.