Question

Which of the following are the characteristics of weft knitting?
A. Can be done by hand or machine
B. Only through machine
C. One continous yarn forms courses across the width
D. Many yarns form wales along the length
E. Can be unravelled
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B and C only
• B. B, C, and D only
• C. C, D and E only
• D. A, C and E only

Hint:

To remember: "Weft" runs horizontally (left-to-right), just like weft/filling yarns in weaving, whereas "Warp" runs vertically (up-and-down).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Knitting is the process of constructing fabric by interlooping one or more yarns.
The two primary methods of knitting are weft (filling) knitting and warp knitting, each with distinct structural characteristics.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the listed characteristics to identify those unique to weft knitting:
- A. Can be done by hand or machine: Weft knitting can be done manually using hand knitting needles, or industrially using flatbed or circular knitting machines. (Warp knitting, on the other hand, can only be done on specialized warp knitting machines).
- C. One continuous yarn forms courses across the width: In weft knitting, a single continuous yarn is fed horizontally, forming a row of loops (courses) across the width of the fabric.
- E. Can be unravelled: Because weft knit fabric is formed from a single continuous yarn, pulling a loose end can easily unravel the entire fabric course by course (a characteristic known as "running").
- D. Many yarns form wales along the length: This describes warp knitting, where a separate yarn is fed vertically for each wale along the length of the fabric, preventing it from unravelling easily.
Therefore, options A, C, and E are the defining characteristics of weft knitting.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The characteristics of weft knitting are that it can be done by hand or machine, uses a single continuous yarn to form horizontal courses, and can be unravelled (A, C and E only).