i) Describe the construction of the two main types of knitted fabrics ii)Explain why knitted fabrics are used for a wide range of garments.

i) There are two main types of knitted fabrics, warp and weft. They both consist of interlocking loops, with the courses running horizontally and the Wales running vertically. Weft knitting has many variations, yet this is the most simple knit, it tends to be bulkier and has a distinctive technical front and back. Warp knit is a more complex knit which can only be produced by machines with its needles traveling multiple wales sideways before making a loop, the main difference between the two knits is that weft knitting can be made by using only one yarn which travels across the width of the fabric with each successive row of loops being drawn through the previous row of loops. Whereas in warp knitting, many yarns are interlooped sideways and are formed along the length of the fabric rather than the width.
ii) Knitted fabrics are used for a wide range of garments as there are many different variations of constructions and appearances which can be produced. Knitted fabrics can be used for a wide range of garments as they have a lot of useful properties. Knitted fabrics tend to be stretchy however, weft knit has a lot more stretch in both the width and the length. This knit tends to be used for jumpers or cardigans, whereas warp knitting can be produced quickly on machines and produces a finer knit which doesn't ladder and can be used for performance clothing as this is a more stable and less stretchy construction. Knitted fabrics can also have form which is useful for desired 3D garments or products. Knitted fabrics have a good drape and can be flattering as it hangs on the body contouring a persons shape. In weft knitting, the needle bed can do a miss or tuck stick to produce an open work fabric which may be used for design. If knitting on two needle beds a rib knit can also be formed which is a more balanced material which doesn't curl. Knitted fabrics don't crease easily due to their extensibility, which is useful in products like t-shirts. Also, one of their main uses is for insulation, their interlocking structures means that their are many air pockets within the construction, therefore air can be trapped and the body can be kept warm. Yarns can also be varied to have different structures for design or insulation such as chenille or snarl, when these are added to kits they also alter the fabrics insulation properties. However, as well as these air pockets allowing insulation they also allow breathability.