You want to know the secrets of interlock vs rib knit fabrics and what makes them special compared to others. Both fabrics are the best, but which one is very useful? Here are the top key differences between them that will clarify whether you need to get them or not. Let’s go deeper.

Interlock vs Rib Knit

Before starting another topic, we need to clearly understand our title, which is about the comparison of interlock and rib knit. Interlock is a special type of fabric that is double-knit like rib knit. It’s famous in the global market for its useful features, like unmatched qualities. 

It’s made by interlocking two layers of loops together, creating a thicker and more stable material. Its unique structure makes it stronger and more durable. 

While both interlock and rib knit offer excellent stretch and recovery compared to single knits, their structural differences make each uniquely suited for specific applications.

The choice between interlock and rib knit depends on the garment’s purpose. Interlock excels as a primary fabric for complete garments requiring structure, while rib knit shines in functional trim applications needing extreme stretch.

Understanding Interlock vs Rib Knit Fabrics

Interlock knit and rib knit are both double-knit fabrics, but their development is significantly different. Interlock is made with two layers of yarn interlooped with each other, which creates a smooth, stable fabric. The interlocking loops make it thicker, less stretchy, and harder than rib knit.

Rib knit is made by alternating raised vertical stitches (like columns) with recessed stitches, creating a scientific structure. This structure gives rib knit its waist stretch, especially widthwise, while interlock has a more moderate, even stretch. 

The production process for interlock making is slightly more complex to manufacture than rib knit, which is widely used for cuffs and collars due to its elasticity.

Stretchiness & Flexibility

Interlock fabric is less stretchy and flexible than the rib knit because it’s made by the interlooping of two layers of yarn tightly, which makes its loops closer together. Due to the tight binding, the interlock fabric gives a smoother and flatter surface than that of rib knit. 

Rib knit is very stretchy and flexible because of its structure of construction, which is a columnar structure. Ribs are almost always used at those points of the garments where 100% elasticity is required. So it has much more elasticity widthwise than lengthwise. This characteristic makes it ideal for fitted bands on sleeves, necklines, and waistbands. 

Thickness & Weight

Interlock knit is generally thicker and heavier than rib knit because of its double-layer construction. The tightly interlooped yarns create a dense, medium-weight fabric that’s ideal for cooler weather. 

Rib knit is also double-layered and lighter due to its open, textured design. The raised ribs add airiness, making it less insulating than interlock. However, rib knit’s thickness varies based on the size of its ribs (e.g., 1×1 rib vs. 2×2 rib). 

For warmth and durability, interlock is superior, but rib knit’s lightweight flexibility makes it better for trim details or breathable layering pieces.

Edge Curling (Does It Roll or Lie Flat?)

One of interlock knit’s biggest advantages is that its edges are perfectly flat without curling, a common frustration with single knits like jersey and its competitor, rib knit. This makes it easier to sew and gives finished garments a clean, professional look. 

Rib knit has many chances of curling at the edges due to its alternating stitch pattern, which creates tension imbalances. While this curling can be managed with stabilizers and professional sewing techniques such as hemming, it’s an extra step that interlock knits eliminate. 

If you want hassle-free sewing with no edge distortion, interlock is the better choice.

Durability & Longevity

Thanks to its tight interlooping of interlock fabric, it is more stable in the face of many washes. Because in its construction, two layers of yarn are involved, and the knots are interconnected with a powerful binding. Its unique texture resists curling and other types of damage. 

But all the conditions for the rib knits are not the same. Because of looseness in some rib construction and use at highly stressed points like the necklace, the chances of damage rise from time to time, which affects its longevity and durability. It’s a reversible phenomenon when the strength and the durability are affected, respectively.