Question

Which of the following is NOT the characteristic of weft knitting?

• A. Can be unravelled
• B. May ladder
• C. Knitting needles always work together as a unit
• D. One continuous yarn forms courses across the width

Hint:

To distinguish between the two types of knitting:
- Weft knitting: horizontal loops, single yarn, can unravel easily, sequential needle action.
- Warp knitting: vertical loops, multiple yarns, run-resistant, simultaneous needle action.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Knitting is a fabric construction method where loops of yarn are intermeshed.
The two primary categories of knitting are weft knitting and warp knitting.
Each category uses different yarn paths and needle movements, resulting in distinct fabric characteristics.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each characteristic:
- Can be unravelled (A): Weft knit fabrics can be unravelled horizontally.
If a yarn is pulled, the entire course of loops can be undone. Thus, this is a characteristic of weft knitting.
- May ladder (B): If a stitch is dropped in a weft knit, the loops can unravel vertically, creating a "run" or ladder.
Thus, this is a characteristic of weft knitting.
- One continuous yarn forms courses across the width (D): In weft knitting, a single yarn runs horizontally across the fabric, forming a course of loops.
Thus, this is a characteristic of weft knitting.
- Knitting needles always work together as a unit (C): In warp knitting (such as Tricot or Raschel), all needles in a needle bar move and form loops simultaneously as a unit.
In contrast, in weft knitting, the needles form loops sequentially one after another.
Therefore, needles working together as a unit is a characteristic of warp knitting, not weft knitting.
Thus, option (C) is the correct choice.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The statement that is not a characteristic of weft knitting is: "Knitting needles always work together as a unit."