Understanding knitwear starts with three core parameters: Stitch Types, Knitting Methods, and Gauge.
At AZ Knit, we master these dimensions to deliver customized OEM solutions, ensuring every garment meets design creativity, production accuracy, and global market standards.
Gauge
Gauge (GG) refers to the number of stitches per inch. It determines whether a garment feels chunky and heavy, or fine and lightweight.
3GG / 5GG → Chunky knit, heavy sweaters, cardigans, outerwear
7GG / 9GG → Medium density, casual sweaters, hoodies
12GG / 14GG → Balanced fine gauge, business sweaters, fashion knitwear
16GG / 18GG → Ultra-fine gauge, premium cashmere, luxury polos and tops
Chunky knit (low gauge)
bold texture, oversized fashion, winter outerwear
Fine gauge (high gauge)
elegant, lightweight, luxury retail
Stitch Type
Our stitch types—Jersey, Rib, Purl, Links-Links, Jacquard, Intarsia, Cable, Waffle, and Mesh—offer B2B buyers unlimited design flexibility, reliable performance, and brand differentiation.
Bring your designs to life – From rib knits to jacquard sweaters, we transform stitch types into scalable OEM production.
Jersey
Smooth and versatile surface
Used in sweaters, dresses, and tops
Works well with medium to fine gauge yarns
Ribbed
Strong elasticity, excellent shape retention
Ideal for cuffs, collars, fitted sweaters
Popular for cardigans and knit vests
Purl
Soft texture with visible loops
Commonly used in casual sweaters and outerwear
Embroidery
Adds decorative patterns, logos, or textures
Enhances brand identity and premium appearance
Jacquard
Complex multi-color patterns woven into fabric
Perfect for brand customization and seasonal collections
Intarsia
Precise color-block knitting without float yarns on the back
Often used for logos and signature brand designs
Cable
Twisted, three-dimensional structure
Popular in chunky sweaters and heritage knitwear
Waffle
Honeycomb-like texture, breathable and casual
Used in sweaters, hoodies, and loungewear
Mesh
Open-knit, lightweight, breathable
Ideal for spring/summer knitwear, layering tops
Knitting Method
Our knitting methods—Flat, Circular, Seamless, and Fully Fashioned—empower B2B buyers with flexible design, scalable production, premium quality, and sustainable manufacturing.
Contact us today to develop custom knitwear solutions tailored to your brand.
Flat Knit
Flexible and versatile production method
Suitable for sweaters, cardigans, hoodies
Circular Knit
Tubular structure, seamless sides
Common for knit tops, dresses, and activewear
Seamless
No seams, full garment knit directly
Reduces waste, enhances comfort and fit
Popular for performance knitwear and luxury apparel
Fully Fashioned
Panels shaped during knitting rather than cut
Creates premium quality with less waste
Ensures precision for high-end garments
❓ FAQ: Knit Structures in OEM Knitwear
The most common knit structures include jersey, rib, purl, jacquard, intarsia, cable, waffle, mesh, and links-links. Each structure creates a unique fabric density and look, helping buyers target different markets, from chunky fashion sweaters to fine-gauge luxury knitwear.
Knit structures directly influence stretch, shape retention, and fabric strength. For example, rib knit sweaters hold their shape well for cuffs and collars, while jacquard knits provide decorative designs but require precise tension control for long-lasting performance.
Luxury buyers prefer fine-gauge links-links, mesh knits, and fully fashioned jacquards, as these structures create refined textures, lightweight handfeel, and precise shaping. Pairing these with premium fibers like cashmere or extra-fine merino wool enhances brand positioning in the high-end market.
Yes. Jacquard and intarsia knitwear allow logos, patterns, and artwork to be knitted directly into the fabric, offering buyers brand-specific customization. These techniques are widely used by fashion brands for OEM sweaters, cardigans, and promotional knitwear.
For mass retail, basic structures like jersey and rib ensure scalability and durability. For fashion brands, cable and jacquard knits offer creative variety. For eco and luxury markets, seamless mesh or links-links structures provide premium comfort, sustainability, and differentiation.
