Single Jersey vs Interlock vs Rib: Specifying Knit Fabrics for Apparel Brands

Understand the three constructions

Single jersey has a different appearance on its face and back. It is widely used for T-shirts, and cut edges can curl. Compare the intended face, drape and finished garment before approval.

Interlock is a double-knit construction with similar-looking faces. It generally has a stable structure and does not curl like single jersey. It is an option to evaluate when a garment needs a more substantial body.

Rib, such as 1×1 or 2×2, has alternating columns of face and back stitches. Its widthwise extensibility makes it useful for neckbands, cuffs, waistbands and fitted garments. Correctly knitted basic rib does not normally curl.

These structural descriptions are a starting point. Stretch recovery, shrinkage, hand feel and durability must be checked on the actual fabric; they are not guaranteed by its name.

Choose body fabric and trim separately

For a T-shirt, compare the body fabric against the intended silhouette and how it feels when worn. An oversized fit and a fitted top can require different decisions even when both use cotton.

For a rib neckband, check how the opening fits over the head and how it looks after wear and washing. Confirm the trim construction, composition and finished measurements separately from the body fabric.

For hoodies and sweatshirts, this comparison does not replace a decision about the body’s fleece or French terry construction. Use the hoodie manufacturing guide to prepare the body-fabric, fit and decoration brief; assess cuffs and waistband as separate components.

Write a fabric specification that can be reviewed

Include these details in the tech pack or fabric brief:

• Garment style and the component where each fabric is used.
• Construction: single jersey, interlock, 1×1 rib or another specifically identified structure.
• Fiber composition and any elastane content.
• Target finished GSM and the proposed acceptance tolerance for review.
• Color reference, hand-feel reference and intended finishing.
• Required measurements, care instructions and performance criteria.
• Print, embroidery, label and packaging requirements.

Label unconfirmed details as requirements for review rather than approved specifications. Keep the approved version and its date with the style reference.

Use the fabric GSM guide for weight specifications and the fiber selection guide when comparing composition. GSM is fabric mass per unit area; it is not the weight of a finished garment.

Validate the sample before approving bulk

Agree on what will be checked before making the sample. Useful review items include garment measurements, appearance, color, fabric weight, decoration and behavior after the intended care procedure.

Record the agreed test method, conditions and acceptance criteria where performance matters. Compare the body and trims together: a satisfactory body swatch does not approve the neckband, cuff or finished garment.

For each change, identify the component, the requested adjustment and the next approval step. Keep written approval with the sample reference. The sampling and tech-pack guide explains how to prepare the development brief.

Control changes on repeat orders

A repeat order should reference the approved fabric specification and garment sample, not just a previous style name. Confirm whether the construction, composition, finished GSM, finishing, color standard or trim has changed.

Ask for proposed substitutions to be identified before approval. Review how a change could affect fit, decoration and care performance, and decide whether a new sample or further checks are required.

Retain the previous approval record and issue a new version when requirements change. Reconfirm quantities and the production schedule for each order; a prior delivery date does not establish a guaranteed replenishment lead time.

The private-label and repeat-order guide covers the wider development and replenishment brief.

Send Yuanchun a reviewable sourcing brief

Ningbo Yuanchun Garment Co., Ltd. provides knitted garment OEM production and sample and pattern development. Share your reference garment or tech pack, fabric requirements, size specifications, quantity per style, target price and delivery window for review.

Regular bulk MOQ starts at 300 pieces per style. Color and size allocation, material availability and the development route are reviewed for the order. Fabric alternatives or samples are subject to review; this is not a claim that Yuanchun operates its own fabric-knitting mill.

We normally reply to inquiries within 48 hours. Quotation and production timing depend on the information supplied and the requirements confirmed for the order.

Browse T-shirt references, or send your brief through the quotation form.

Technical background: CottonWorks — Single & Double Knits. Construction descriptions are general background, not performance specifications for an individual order.