Wonderful Wool Knits
Cozy up to soft, warm, figure-friendly wool knits! From hefty double-knits to tissue jerseys, high quality wool knits keep you warm without overheating, wick moisture away from your skin, and travel beautifully.
What makes wool knits so special?
--They have excellent memory. "Memory" is a knit's capacity to spring back once it has been stretched. While many knits (including some wools) now incorporate lycra to enhance and preserve springiness, 100% wool knits do not require lycra to stretch and return effectively, throughout the life of your garment.
--They have a matte, sophisticated look. Unlike shiny polyesters or lustrous silks and rayons, wool knits have no sheen but wonderful texture. Garments made from wool knits have a classic, go-anywhere appeal, combined with matchless durability.
--They are a dream to work with. Wool knits are not slippery or fussy: they stay where you put them. Wool knits are often sewn with a serger, and be sure to use a ball point needle to get the best results.
--They are comparatively easy-care. Many wool knits can be hand washed in cool water--but if you're planning to wash your garment after it's made, wash it before you cut the fabric! You don't want to be surprised by potential shrinkage (not all wool knits shrink, and some shrink more than others. Cut a swatch, trace it on a piece of paper, and wash it. Then compare it to your original tracing: you will be able to tell if it shrinks in the width or length, and what percentage of each). Knits pack beautifully and are comfortable in virtually any weather, so they're an excellent choice for travelling.
There's a wool knit for every occasion! Here's a quick list of the most popular wool knits--
Jersey: In 1916, "Coco" Chanel scandalized the fashion industry by using jersey at a time when it was strictly associated with underwear. A century later, jersey knits are used for everything from T-shirts to couture. They are very stretchy single knits (as opposed to the heavier doubleknits), generally very lightweight, with one flat side and one piled side. Wool jersey feels wonderful against the skin and is perfect for close-fitting undershirts, oversized Ts, dresses, skirts, shawls, and more.
Double knit: Also called interlock or ponte, Double knits are exactly that: two single jerseys knitted together to leave the two flat sides on the outsides of the fabric, with the piles in the middle. They are heavier and generally less stretchy than single jerseys, and are figure-flattering and easy to sew with. Unlike jerseys, double knits are often lined and are excellent for pants, skirts, dresses and coats--and with their matte finish and dense construction, wool double knits are especially elegant.
Ribbed knit: You'll see ribbed knits most frequently in your classic tank undershirts and at the cuffs, waist, and neck of your bomber jacket, but they are also excellent choices for form-fitting turtlenecks, dresses, and skirts. Wool ribbed knits can be as light as tissue jersey, or as heavy as an especially dense sweater knit.
Missoni knit: With their distinctive chevron pattern, Missoni knits are universally recognizable. Made of wool and various other fibers, they are characterized by their sophisticated color palettes and excellent construction. While Missoni patterns can be imitated, their quality cannot! Come in to Britex to see a selection of real Missoni knits and hundreds of other beautiful wool knits. We'll be happy to introduce you to our collection!
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