Single Jersey

Single jersey is a plain weft knit made on one set of needles, commonly used in T-shirts. The face shows columns of V-shaped stitches, while the back shows more of the horizontal loop arcs.

How It Works

The needles pull new loops through the previous loops, course by course. A single-jersey circular machine can knit a continuous tube, which is finished to suit the product.

Uses and Benefits

The structure can be light and soft, with some natural crosswise stretch. It can be made from cotton, polyester, or blends, depending on the garment.

Limitations

Cut edges tend to curl, and some jerseys can shrink or skew after washing. Crosswise stretch does not guarantee good recovery. That depends on yarn, construction, and finishing.

What to Check

On a T-shirt sample, check measurements before and after washing, side-seam twist, opacity, and pilling. Check stretch and recovery separately for a close fit.