Interlock Knit
Fabric — one of 56 in the glossary
A double knit made on two needle beds so the fabric has the same smooth face on both sides, with no looped reverse. It is heavier, denser and more stable than jersey: it does not curl at the edges, holds its shape, and resists running if cut. That stability makes it a good print surface for large solid areas, and it takes embroidery without puckering the way thin jersey does. It costs more and breathes less than jersey, so it appears on infant wear, premium polos and better-quality performance tops.
Two needle beds, two faces
A single jersey is knitted on one needle bed, which is why it has a smooth face and a looped reverse and why it curls at a cut edge — the two sides are under different tension.
Interlock is knitted on two beds with the loops interlocking between them, so both faces are smooth. It is effectively two jerseys knitted into each other.
That construction is heavier and uses more yarn, which is most of why an interlock garment costs more than a jersey one of the same fibre.
What the stability buys
It does not curl. A cut edge lies flat, which matters for necklines, hems and anything raw-edged.
It resists running if it is cut or snagged, where a jersey can ladder.
It holds its shape through wear and washing better than jersey, which is why it is common in children's wear, polos and anything that has to survive being pulled about.
As a print surface
Interlock is the better surface for large solid areas of ink. It is denser and more stable, so the fabric does not distort under the squeegee and the deposit lands evenly.
It is also less prone to the slight fuzz that makes fine detail soften on an open jersey.
The trade-off is weight and drape. An interlock tee feels more substantial and hangs straighter, which is either what you want or exactly what you do not.
Common questions
- What is interlock knit?
- A double knit made on two needle beds with the loops interlocking between them, so both faces are smooth. It is denser, heavier and more stable than single jersey.
- What is the difference between interlock and jersey?
- Jersey is knitted on one bed and has a smooth face and a looped reverse, so it curls at the edges. Interlock is knitted on two beds and is smooth on both sides, heavier, and does not curl.
- Does interlock fabric curl?
- No, and that is much of the point of it. A cut edge lies flat, which is why interlock is used where raw or lightly finished edges are needed.
- Is interlock good for printing?
- It is one of the better knit surfaces for it. The density and stability keep large solid areas of ink even and stop the fabric distorting under the squeegee.
See also
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