Cashmere Knit Weave Types: Jersey, Rib, Plain

Knitting is how cashmere yarn gets turned into fabric. It's a construction style of cashmere clothing. Think of it like making a chain with loops, each loop connects to the next one, creating a flexible fabric that can stretch and move with your body.

The way cashmere is knitted completely changes how it looks, feels, fits, and lasts. Two sweaters made from identical cashmere yarn can feel totally different just because of how they're constructed.

Knitting creates loops that can stretch, while weaving creates a grid that's more rigid. This is why cashmere sweaters are comfortable and flexible.

The basic process: Knitting machines or hand needles create interlocking loops of yarn. Each new row of loops pulls through the loops from the previous row, building up the fabric row by row.

Loop structure: Every piece of knitted cashmere is made of thousands of tiny loops all connected together. When you stretch cashmere, these loops open up. When you let go, they spring back to their original shape.

Yarn direction: In knitting, the same continuous piece of yarn winds back and forth to create the entire fabric. If you pull out one loose thread, you could potentially unravel a whole section.

Stretch and fit: Different knit structures stretch in different directions and amounts, affecting how clothes fit and move with your body.

Warmth: How the loops are arranged affects how much air gets trapped inside, which determines how warm the fabric keeps you.

Durability: Some knit structures are stronger and resist pilling better than others.

Appearance: The knit pattern creates the visual texture you see on the surface of the fabric.

Care needs: Different constructions require different care methods to maintain their shape and appearance.

Plain knit is the most basic and fundamental knit structure used in cashmere construction. All the loops face the same direction, creating a smooth, flat surface on one side and a bumpy, textured surface on the other side. This creates the classic appearance that most people think of when they picture a sweater - smooth with small "V" shaped stitches arranged in neat columns. Plain knit is the foundation for most cashmere garments because it uses yarn efficiently, knits quickly, and creates a clean, timeless appearance that works for both casual and professional settings.

How it's made:

• Knitting needles pull loops through previous loops in the same direction every row
• Each new row creates loops that all face forward (toward the knitter)
• The yarn moves in one continuous line, building the fabric row by row
• Modern machines can knit plain knit very quickly and consistently
• Hand knitters use the basic "knit stitch" for every stitch in every row
• The process creates natural curl at the edges due to the stitch structure
• No pattern changes or stitch variations are needed - just consistent repetition

Feel and texture:

• Smooth to the touch on the right side
• Slightly textured on the wrong side
• Thin and lightweight compared to other knits
• Very soft when made with quality cashmere

Performance characteristics:

• Stretch: Good stretch horizontally, less vertically
• Recovery: Returns to shape well if not overstretched
• Warmth: Moderate warmth, not the warmest option
• Durability: Can be delicate, prone to runs and holes

Best uses:

• Lightweight sweaters and cardigans
• Scarves and wraps
• Underlayers and base layers
• Formal or business wear
• Summer cashmere items

Care considerations:

• Handle gently to avoid runs
• Store flat to prevent stretching
• Be careful with sharp objects or jewelry

Our Plain Cashmere collection.

Women's Cashmere Cardigan - V Neck with Plain Blue & Grey

$110

Women's Cashmere Cardigan - V Neck with Plain Blue & Grey

$110

Cashmere Cardigan for Women in Red - V Neck Cropped Cardigan

$142

Long Cashmere Cardigan - Round Neck & Front Buttoned

$110

Long Cashmere Cardigan - Round Neck & Front Buttoned

$110

Long Cashmere Cardigan - Round Neck & Front Buttoned

$110

Jersey knit is a refined and elevated version of plain knit that uses more precise knitting techniques to create a superior fabric. While it follows the same basic loop structure as plain knit, jersey knit employs tighter control over stitch size, more consistent tension, and often uses finer needles to create smaller, more uniform loops. This results in a smoother, more professional appearance with better drape and shape retention. Jersey knit represents the premium standard for cashmere garments, where appearance and quality are paramount. The fabric flows beautifully, holds its shape excellently, and provides the polished look that luxury cashmere buyers expect.

How it's made:

• Uses more precise knitting techniques than basic plain knit
• Employs finer needles to create smaller, more consistent loops
• Maintains very tight control over yarn tension throughout the process
• Often uses computer-controlled machines for perfect consistency
• Requires higher skill level and more time than plain knit construction
• May involve multiple quality control checks during the knitting process
• Uses premium yarn preparation to ensure even thickness and texture

Feel and texture:

• Silky smooth surface
• Consistent thickness throughout
• Excellent drape and flow
• Feels substantial but not heavy

Performance characteristics:

• Stretch: Excellent stretch in all directions
• Recovery: Superior shape retention
• Warmth: Good insulation properties
• Durability: More resilient than basic plain knit

Best uses:

• High-quality sweaters and tops
• Dresses and skirts
• Professional and formal wear
• Items that need to hold their shape
• Luxury everyday items

Advantages:

• Excellent fit and comfort
• Professional appearance
• Good shape retention
• Versatile for many uses

Considerations:

• Usually more expensive due to precise construction
• May show pulls or snags more easily
• Requires careful handling during washing

Rib knit is a distinctive construction method that creates vertical ridges and valleys by alternating between knit and purl stitches in the same row. This alternating pattern creates a fabric with exceptional stretch and recovery properties, making it ideal for areas that need to fit snugly and return to their original shape. The vertical texture not only provides visual interest but also creates excellent insulation by trapping air in the valleys between ridges. Rib knit is incredibly versatile - it can be used for entire garments for a casual, textured look, or incorporated into specific areas like cuffs, collars, and hems where stretch and shape retention are essential. The construction creates a naturally elastic fabric that's both durable and comfortable.

How it's made:

• Alternates between knit stitches (loops pulled forward) and purl stitches (loops pushed back)
• Creates vertical columns of raised and recessed areas
• Can follow various patterns like 1x1 (one knit, one purl) or 2x2 (two knit, two purl)
• Requires changing needle position for each stitch type within the same row
• Uses more yarn than plain knit due to the textured structure
• Takes longer to complete due to the alternating stitch pattern
• Can be done by hand or machine, but requires more skill than plain knit

Feel and texture:

• Textured surface you can feel with your fingers
• Springy and elastic to the touch
• Substantial thickness
• Cozy, comfortable feeling

Performance characteristics:

• Stretch: Excellent stretch, especially horizontally
• Recovery: Superior ability to return to original shape
• Warmth: Excellent insulation due to texture trapping air
• Durability: Very resilient, resists stretching out of shape

Best uses:

• Sweater cuffs, collars, and hems
• Full sweaters for casual wear
• Scarves and hats
• Items that need to fit snugly
• Cold weather accessories

Advantages:

• Exceptional stretch and recovery
• Excellent shape retention
• Superior warmth
• Durable and long-lasting
• Forgiving fit

Considerations:

• More casual appearance than smooth knits
• Can be bulkier than other knit types
• May catch on rough surfaces
• Takes longer to knit, so often more expensive

1: What makes knitted cashmere different from woven fabric?

Knitted cashmere is made of interlocking loops, which makes it soft, stretchy, and comfortable to wear. Woven fabrics, on the other hand, are more rigid and less flexible, so knitted garments move with your body and feel cozy.

2: How do plain, jersey, and rib knits differ?

Plain knit is simple and lightweight with a smooth front and slightly textured back, ideal for classic sweaters and cardigans. Jersey knit is smoother and more refined, offering elegant drape and a polished look for formal or professional wear. Rib knit has vertical ridges, giving it excellent stretch and warmth, perfect for cuffs, collars, and casual sweaters.

3: Which knit type is warmest?

Rib knit is the warmest because its textured ridges trap air, providing natural insulation. Jersey knit offers moderate warmth, while plain knit is lighter and better for layering or warmer seasons.

4: How does knit type affect fit and comfort?

Rib knit stretches easily and returns to its original shape, making it forgiving for snug areas. Jersey knit flows smoothly and holds shape well, while plain knit has moderate stretch and a softer, looser fit.

5: Can different knit types be used for professional or casual wear?

Yes. Jersey knit and fine plain knit work well for professional or formal outfits due to their polished appearance. Rib knit is more casual and cozy, suitable for everyday wear and winter garments.

6: How should I care for my knitted cashmere?

Handle gently to avoid pulls or snags. Store flat to maintain shape, wash carefully with mild detergents, and follow specific care instructions on the garment label.

7: Does knit type affect the cost of cashmere items?

Yes. Plain knit is usually the most affordable, jersey knit costs more due to its precision and refined appearance, and rib knit is generally pricier because it uses more yarn and is more labor-intensive.