knitwear

Knitwear refers to garments and accessories produced by knitting, the fabric construction method that interlocks yarns into loops. Knitted textiles are typically elastic and drape softly, and can be produced by hand knitting or by machine knitting using flat or circular machines.

Yarns for knitwear come from natural fibers such as wool, cotton, alpaca, cashmere, and silk, as well as synthetic fibers such as acrylic and nylon, and blends. The choice of fiber influences warmth, weight, texture, durability, and care requirements.

Knitting is commonly categorized as weft knitting, where loops are formed row by row, and warp knitting, where stitches form in a zigzag; most consumer knitwear uses weft knitting produced on flat or circular machines. Hand knitting remains common for bespoke pieces.

Knitwear categories include sweaters (pullovers and cardigans), scarves and wraps, hats and gloves, socks, and various dresses and tops. It is used as outerwear, mid-layers, or base layers, depending on fiber and construction.

Care and maintenance vary by fiber; wool and other protein fibers often require gentle washing and air drying to avoid shrinkage or felting, while cotton and synthetic knits may tolerate machine washing. Pilling and snagging are common considerations for fabrics with looser stitch structures.

Knitwear has ancient roots in Europe and other regions, with hand knitting becoming widespread in the Middle Ages. Industrialization introduced machine knitting, enabling mass production and a broader range of styles and price points.