Characteristics Of Jersey Fabrics

What is Jersey Fabric: Types, Characteristics, Uses

Jersey Fabric Basics

Jersey fabrics are single knit fabrics woven of various fibers, such as wool, cotton, hemp, bamboo, silk, viscose, rayon, etc. The weaving method makes them stretchy and comfortable in wear. Jersey knit fabrics can be lightweight or heavy, solid or patterned. They are sewn into fashionable garments worn by people of all ages and builds: men, women, kids.

Jersey materials are usually opaque, soft and drapey. They have fine ribs running lengthwise on the face side, and loops on the reverse. The common applications include dresses, skirts, tops, sweatshirts, cardigans and trousers. Heavy jersey fabrics are perfect for jackets and sweaters, and you can also make shawls,

While both types of knit materials are naturally elastic, their ability to expand and bounce back increases a lot when you add elastane, lycra or spandex.

Jersey Fabric Characteristics

Originally, jersey fabric was made of wool. The name comes from the Isle of Jersey, one of the Channel Islands between Britain and France, where Jersey’s own sheep were bred. The soft material was used for underwear, fishermen’s sweaters and hosiery.

In 1916, Coco Chanel introduced jersey to the fashion world. First, she created a heavy jersey coat, and then all kinds of jersey dresses that were extremely comfortable to wear. With her simple, yet elegant designs she popularized the fabric that had been used before only by men.

So, what do we love jersey for?

 Elasticity

Jersey fabrics are ideal for close-fitting and clingy items, and they do not hinder your movement unlike non-stretchy taffeta or satin. Jersey knits move with you!

 Softness

The degree of softness depends on the fibers your material is made of, as well as on the finish. To find a rough jersey fabric is a once-in-a-blue-moon occasion.

 Durability

This knit fabric is strong and resistant to

However, if you’re planning to make a pair of trousers, go with 100% cotton jersey knit, because it is more stable.

Silk Jersey Knits

Silk jersey fabrics are probably the smoothest and softest of all. These knits are fine and thin, very often translucent, with a beautiful silky sheen. Naturally elastic, they have even better stretch if produced with lycra or any other elastic fibers.

Silk jersey has a slinky drape, so no wonder fashion designers are in love with it! A very feminine type of knit fabric, it has literally dozens of uses.

- Tops

- Blouses

- Dresses

- Skirts

- Lingerie

- Tunics

- Wraps and cover-ups

- Leisurewear

Silk jersey fabric is more expensive than other knits, but sometimes it’s worth paying extra cash to get the best quality out there. Silk is known for its ability to regulate body temperature, which means it’s cool to wear in summer and warm in winter. Plus, silk jersey looks great in tucked and smocked designs.

Wool Jersey