This versatile fabric has historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages, when Jersey was a significant exporter of knitted goods.
[2] Jersey fabric was originally woven from wool, but it has since evolved to include cotton and synthetic blends, with common ratios being 50/50 or 60/40.
Today, jersey fabric is prized for its lightweight and stretchy qualities and is often made from materials like rayon or viscose, which provide a soft texture and excellent drape.
[5] Depending on the type of wool and the processing methods used, the resulting yarns can be tailored for various applications, including carpets, upholstery, and high-quality clothing.
Woolen yarns, on the other hand, are tufted into carpets by stitching loops into a backing fabric, which can either be cut or left intact, then sealed for added strength.
The addition of synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester in the 20th century further enhanced jersey's stretch, moisture control, and durability.
[8] Purely synthetic fibers, such as polyester and nylon, are created from petrochemicals and are designed for specific properties like high durability, resistance to wrinkles, and moisture-wicking capabilities.
[9] The versatility of jersey fabric, combined with the diverse options in fiber selection, allows for a wide range of applications in the textile industry.
In the UK, the English method is common, whereas the Continental approach is favored in Germany and Scandinavia, known for intricate patterns like Fair Isle and Norwegian knitting techniques.