What does the fineness of a mesh mean?
" Fineness " is a technical term in the field of knitting. But what exactly does "fineness" mean in knitting? And how does it affect the quality and final appearance of knitted garments? In this article, with the help of the blog " desigknit.it " we will explore the meaning of fineness in the field of knitting, and how it can influence the choice of materials and processing techniques.
What is fineness in knitting?
The "fineness" indicates the density of the knitting stitches, i.e. the number of needles per inch (or per centimeter) on the knitting machine. This parameter is fundamental because it determines how fine or thick the stitches of the final fabric will be. The higher the number of needles per inch, the greater the fineness and the finer the fabric will be.
For example, a knit with a gauge of 3 is very thick and heavy , ideal for warm and sturdy winter sweaters. Conversely, a knit with a gauge of 12 or higher is very fine and light , perfect for summer/spring sweaters or for elegant and sophisticated garments.
How is fineness measured?
The fineness is indicated by a number which can vary from 1 to 18 or more. This number represents how many needles there are on one inch of the needle bar of the knitting machine. Here is a general guide:- Low gauge (1-3): used for very large and heavy sweaters. Ideal for winter garments or for fabrics that require greater volume and warmth.
- Medium gauge (4-7): used for medium weight knitwear, such as casual sweaters or sportswear.
- High Gauge (8-12): used for lighter and finer knits, such as cardigans, light pullovers and spring clothing.
- Very High Fineness (13+): used for extremely fine knitwear, often used for elegant garments or high-performance technical clothing.
Why is it important to know the fineness of a mesh?
The fineness of knitwear is not just a question of aesthetics but also has practical implications. Here are some reasons why finesse is important:1. Appearance and style: the fineness directly affects the appearance of the knitwear item. A finer mesh creates a smooth, thin fabric, ideal for elegant, refined garments. On the contrary, a thicker knit has a more voluminous and rustic look.
2. Comfort and functionality: the choice of fineness can influence the comfort of the garment. A finer mesh is generally lighter and more breathable, suitable for warm weather or layering. A thicker knit offers greater thermal insulation and comfort in cold climates.
3. Durability: The fineness can also influence the durability of the fabric. A coarse mesh tends to be more resistant and long-lasting, while a fine mesh, while delicate and soft, may require more attention in care and maintenance.
4. Cost and production: Higher gauge mesh often takes longer to produce and therefore can be more expensive. This is because machines have to work with greater precision and it takes more stitches to create a piece of fabric of the same size as a chunky knit.
How to choose the right gauge of a shirt?
Choosing the gauge for a sweater depends on several factors, including the type of garment you want to produce, the yarn used, and the weather conditions in which it will be worn. Here are some examples:
- For winter sweaters: choose a lower gauge (3-7) to ensure warmth and comfort.
- For summer or light shirts: choose a higher gauge (8-12) to obtain a light and breathable fabric.
- For elegant knitwear: a very fine gauge (13+) is perfect for achieving a sophisticated and detailed look.
Finesse, therefore, is a parameter of knitwear that goes beyond simple aesthetics. It determines the quality, functionality, and adaptability of the garment to different situations and climates. Understanding fineness and how it affects knitwear can guide consumers in choosing the clothing that best suits their needs. When it comes to knitwear, finesse is truly a matter of detail!
For this reason, to broaden the choice for our customers, on the Lanaioli website you can find sweaters with different fineness, for every use and personal taste.
