What Is Knitted Interlining?

Knitted interlining is a type of supportive fabric placed between the outer fabric and lining of a garment to provide structure, shape retention, comfort, and durability. Unlike woven interlinings, knitted interlinings are created through looping yarns, which offers elasticity, softness, and flexibility that enhances garment performance.

At our company, we define knitted interlining not just as a material, but as an engineered component—one that improves garment quality from the inside out.

History and Origins

The demand for garment structure dates back centuries, evolving from plant-based stiffeners and hand-stitched reinforcements to modern technical fabrics.

Knitted interlining emerged as textile technologies advanced in the 20th century, meeting the need for flexibility and comfort that rigid woven interlinings could not deliver.

In the 1960s and 1970s, knitting machinery and synthetic fiber innovation accelerated production capabilities. Knitted interlining began to appear in quality tailoring, sportswear, and performance wear. With enhanced elasticity and breathable qualities, it quickly garnered preference among designers seeking greater comfort without sacrificing structure.

Development Process

The development of knitted interlining is grounded in a scientific approach to yarn selection, knitting mechanics, and finishing processes:

Yarn Selection

We start with high-performance yarns (e.g., polyester, nylon, elastane blends) chosen for:

• Elastic recovery
• Tensile strength
• Thermal stability
• Hand feel

Knitting Technology

Knitted interlining is produced on circular or warp knitting machines.

The loop structure allows:

• Controlled stretch and recovery
• Light weighting without losing body
• Enhanced breathability

Machine parameters (gauge, pattern, tension) are tailored to the intended performance profile.

Finishing & Treatment

After knitting, fabrics are finished to improve performance:

• Heat setting (stabilizes shape)
• Chemical coating (water repellency, anti-slip)
• Mechanical finishing (softening, brushing)

This ensures optimal performance and consistency.

Applications Throughout Its Development

Knitted interlining has evolved alongside fashion and performance needs:

Tailoring & Formalwear

Early adoption in jackets and suits for:

• Better shoulder shape
• Comfortable movement
• Durable collar and lapel structure

Sportswear & Activewear

Introduced to:

• Support stretch panels
• Enhance sweat management zones
• Maintain garment elasticity

Technical Garments

Used in:

• Protective wear
• Medical textiles
• Industrial uniforms

Introduction to Modern Knitted Interlining

Modern knitted interlining represents a new standard in inner garment engineering. We combine innovations in fiber science with precise knitting design to achieve:

• High stretch and full recovery
• Soft hand feel for comfort
• Excellent breathability
• Lightweight support
• Consistent quality and dimensional stability

Our latest products are engineered for both performance and fashion—balancing structure with mobility.

Characteristics of Knitted Interlining

Knitted interlinings distinguish themselves through a set of valuable attributes:

• Elasticity

Enhanced stretch across multiple directions, allowing freer movement and better garment comfort.

• Breathability

Looped knit structure allows air circulation, a major advantage for all-season comfort.

• Shape Recovery

Resilient recovery reduces distortion and maintains garment silhouette over time.

• Lightweight Support

Offers structure without bulk—critical for modern lightweight apparel.

• Wash & Wear Durability

Engineered for excellent dimensional stability and resistance to shrinkage or sagging.

• Easy Integration

Available in versions compatible with:

• Sew-in applications
• Fusible bonding

Specifications

We categorize knitted interlining by key performance metrics, including:

Custom specifications are available to meet unique design and performance requirements.

Usage Instructions

To ensure optimal performance in finished garments:

Selection

Choose based on:

• Garment type
• Desired firmness
• Stretch requirements

• Application

Sew-in interlining

• Align with fabric grain
• Sew consistently to avoid puckering

Fusible interlining

• Use appropriate heat settings
• Ensure proper pressure and dwell time
• Test on fabric sample first

Handling

• Store flat or rolled, avoiding creases
• Handle gently to maintain loop integrity

Quality Checks

Check for:

• Even adhesion (if fusible)
• Edge distortion
• Consistent stretch and recovery

Target Customer Groups

Our knitted interlining products serve a broad range of partners:

• Apparel Manufacturers: From luxury tailoring to performance brands seeking superior comfort and performance.
• Fashion Designers: Those who demand structure without stiffness and seamless garment integration.
• Technical Apparel Producers: Including sportswear, medical textiles, and protective clothing where precision materials matter.
• Textile Converters & OEMs: Partners needing reliable, customizable interlining for diverse markets.

Knitted interlining is a versatile, performance-enhancing material that brings structure, comfort, and resilience to modern garments. Its evolution reflects the changing demands of apparel design—where mobility and form are equally valued.