What does fine gauge 12 mean?
Have you ever heard of 12 gauge when buying a cashmere or wool sweater? Have you ever wondered what 12 gauge might mean? In this article, we will explore what "12 gauge sweater" means, what its peculiarities are and when it is ideal to use it, with the help of the blog article " Desigknit .it".
What is finesse?
The gauge in knitting indicates the density of the needles on a knitting machine. More precisely, the fineness represents the number of needles per inch (approximately 2.54 cm). The greater the fineness, the greater the number of needles, and therefore the finer and more compact the fabric will be. Conversely, a lower gauge means fewer needles per inch and a coarser stitch.
The fineness, simply put, indicates the thickness of a yarn. The higher the number indicating the fineness, the finer the yarn will be. Therefore, a 12 gauge cashmere sweater will be thinner than a 7 gauge.
What does 12 gauge mean in a cashmere or wool sweater?
A wool sweater with a 12 gauge indicates that it was produced on a knitting machine that uses 12 needles per inch. This is considered a medium-high fineness, which allows you to obtain relatively thin and light fabrics. Compared to a mesh with a lower gauge (such as 5 or 7), the 12 gauge mesh is softer and more compact, with a more refined texture.
Characteristics of a 12 gauge wool sweater
A wool or cashmere sweater made with 12 gauge yarn has the following characteristics:
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Fine and detailed texture: Thanks to the high number of needles, the fabric of a 12 gauge knit has a smoother and more uniform finish. It is an ideal fineness for more elegant or sophisticated garments. The stitches of the yarn are not visible.
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Lightweight: A 12-gauge cashmere or wool sweater is lighter and softer to the touch than lower-gauge sweaters, making it ideal for warmer climates or as a layer under other garments.
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Versatility: 12 gauge is versatile and can be used to produce a wide range of knitwear, from lightweight sweaters and summer cardigans to sporty suits and chic casual wear.
When to choose a 12 gauge cashmere or wool sweater?
A 12 gauge wool sweater or a 12 gauge cashmere sweater is suitable for:
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Lightweight and breathable garments: the 12 gauge is perfect for sweaters, cardigans and light jackets, ideal for intermediate seasons such as spring and autumn. Being the lightest shirt, it also allows for better breathability, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
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Detailed fabrics: If your design requires complex patterns or elaborate structures, such as lace or intricate stitching, 12 gauge offers the precision needed to achieve a high-quality final result.
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Layers: 12 gauge knit is thin enough to be used as a mid layer. It is ideal for lightweight turtlenecks, shirts or long-sleeved tops that are worn under jackets and coats.
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Knitwear for mild climates: in more temperate climates, where the cold is not intense, 12 gauge knitwear is ideal for offering the right balance between thermal comfort and lightness.
A sweater in cashmere or 12 gauge wool represents an excellent compromise between softness, warmth and lightness. It is versatile and adaptable to most seasons and occasions.
If you are looking for a cashmere or 12 gauge wool sweater, among the Lanaioli collections you will find a wide selection of models to satisfy every need. In addition to pure cashmere, you can choose between:
- Recycled cashmere: An eco-sustainable and high quality alternative.
- Cashmere and wool blend: A perfect combination of softness and resistance.
All our knitwear items are handcrafted in Italy by small workshops that pass down the passion for knitwear from generation to generation.
