Knitting and weaving are the two main ways to turn yarn into fabric — and they call for different yarn. Here is what buyers should know.
How the fabrics are built
Knitting forms fabric from interlocking loops of a single (or few) yarns, giving stretchy, soft fabric — tees, hosiery, sweaters. Weaving interlaces warp and weft into stable, structured fabric — shirting, denim, home textiles.
How yarn requirements differ
| Knitting | Weaving | |
|---|---|---|
| Yarn priority | Softness, evenness | Strength (warp), evenness |
| Typical spin | Combed/carded, single | Ring & OE, single/double |
| Key spec | GSM, gauge, count | Count, EPI/PPI, construction |
| Examples | Tees, socks, sweaters | Shirting, denim, sheeting |
Choosing yarn for each
For knits, lead with soft hosiery yarn and match your GSM with the right count. For wovens, prioritise warp strength with weaving yarn. Size any order with the requirement calculator.
Knitting or weaving, we supply the right yarn for your fabric.
More in our yarn guides.