What is double jersey fabric?
Double Jersey Fabric Facts and Uses
Double jersey fabric(also called interlock jersey fabric) is a knitted fabric also known as double knit or double-layer knit fabric. It’s a stable, lightweight material that’s easy to sew with because it doesn’t roll. It can be used for a variety of clothing styles and is reversible because of its double-sided construction.
Due to the interlocking design, it’s easier to work with. The material is heavier but also has a stretchy quality. The make-up of this sturdy material makes it desirable to use across the textile industry.
Double jersey knit fabric can be used in different types of clothing. It is often more comfortable and the knitting makes it more resistant to wear, offering longevity as a part of any wardrobe. Depending on the blend, it can be used for sports, casual clothing, loungewear or winter outfits. It’s also popularly used for children’s clothing.
How is double jersey made?
The fabric is double knitted and constructed by interlocked stitching between two layers of jersey material. It has two layers of fabric interwoven together and is smooth on either side. The back loops are interlinking with the wales of the fabric alternating. The finished product is a sturdy interwoven material that will not separate.
The machine used to create the double jersey material is a rib knitting machine or circular knitting machine. It has two needle beds, a ribbing bed, that has needles of the same size that knits vertically and horizontally. These needles allow for the double stitching that makes it double-sided and thicker than single jersey stitched material.
There are three main materials that double jersey is made from. Each type of fabric offers a desirable outcome such as feel and appearance.
The 100% cotton double jersey is similar to the single jersey knit but double-sided. It has a smooth surface on each side of the fabric. It’s mid to heavyweight with a fine knit. The natural fibers are less prone to pilling. The fabric is comfortable and suitable to use in children’s clothing and casual wear.
The cotton blend is a combination of synthetic fibers--such as nylon, polyester, or spandex--and cotton to form the double knitted fabric. It has the same features as 100% cotton blend but has elasticity and durability to wear. It is soft to touch and comfortable to wear because the main ingredient is still cotton. It’s an excellent choice for home and loungewear, children’s clothing and tops.
Synthetic double knit jersey is made of 100% synthetic fibers, such as nylon, spandex or polyester. The characteristic of this stretchy fabric allows it to conform to the body of the wearer. It is a comfortable, soft material that has a four-directional stretch. The other features include its moisture-wicking, quick-drying capabilities and its air permeability. Those features make it the best to use for yoga and exercise clothing.
Brushed Jersey Knit
Brushing is a method often performed on synthetic or cotton blended fabrics. It's done on both sides once it has been knitted together. The result is a soft, suede like feel and smooth look and still contains its characteristic stretch. The brushed double jersey fabric is a thicker, heavier weight. It’s good for making thermal underwear or long sleeve tops. It’s great for comfort and warmth during colder months.
As mentioned above, each category of double jersey knit fabric has its benefits and features making it ideal for different projects. It is durable and stretchy, which are ideal traits for sewing. They are wrinkle-resistant and can be worn repeatedly due to the durability of the material. The top usage is clothing.
It can be used for gym clothing and yoga wear because of its moisture-wicking capabilities. For this, you would best choose the synthetic double knit. Its stretching and air permeability makes it comfortable to wear while moving and sweating.
For cooler weather, brushed jersey knit offers comfort and warmth. It’s soft to the touch and is heavier. It is double sided, offering a thick covering during cold weather conditions. This can be used for jackets, thermal underwear, and tops. It can also be used in general clothing sewing because the features still offer comfort, durability, softness and stretch.
For your next project, you should consider using this fabric for its versatility. They can all be used to make various types of clothing. Each category has unique characteristics and can offer comfort and durability.