Common Applications in Apparel

Knit cotton fabrics are widely used in:

• T-shirts and tanks

• Jersey dresses and skirts

• Leggings and yoga wear (especially blends)

• Baby clothing and pajamas

• Sweatshirts, hoodies, and lounge sets

• Lightweight summer tops and nightwear

Why B2B Buyers Prefer Cotton Knits

• Versatility: Available in multiple structures like jersey, rib, waffle, and interlock.

• Print- and dye-friendly: Ideal for seasonal collections or branded lines.

• Scalability: Easy to source in bulk and customize in GSM, width, and finish.

• Market demand: Always in high demand due to its comfort and wearability.

Main Types of Knit Cotton Fabric

Cotton knit fabrics come in many forms—each with specific properties, textures, and ideal uses. Understanding these types helps buyers choose the right material for their designs and target customers.

1. Jersey Knit Cotton Fabric

Jersey knit is the most common and versatile cotton knit. It’s smooth on one side and slightly textured on the other.

Key Features:

• Light to medium weight

• Naturally stretchy

• Excellent drape and softness

Applications:
T-shirts, basic tops, dresses, babywear, and undergarments.

Popular Variants:

• 100% cotton jersey knit fabric

• Organic cotton jersey

• Cotton blend jersey with spandex for added stretch

2. Cotton Rib Knit Fabric

Rib knit fabric features vertical textured lines created by alternating knit and purl stitches. It has great elasticity and recovery.

Key Features:

• Stretchy and form-fitting

• Excellent for binding and trims

• Higher durability in wear

Applications:
Cuffs, necklines, waistbands, body-hugging dresses, and casualwear.

Popular Variants:

• 1×1 and 2×2 rib knit

• Ribbed cotton-spandex for better shape retention

3. Waffle and Sweater Knit Cotton Fabrics

These textured knits offer more warmth and visual interest. Waffle knits have a grid-like texture, while sweater knits mimic hand-knit styles.

Key Features:

• Soft, thermal properties

• Bulkier, structured feel

• Enhanced texture

Applications:
Loungewear, thermals, pullovers, sleepwear, and winter collections.

4. Cotton Blends – Lycra, Spandex, and Polyester

Blending cotton with stretch fibers or synthetics enhances performance and fit.

Benefits of Cotton Blends:

• Improved elasticity

• Better moisture control

• Wrinkle resistance

• Longer garment lifespan

Popular Blends:

• Cotton-spandex knit fabric

• Cotton-lycra for activewear and leggings

• Cotton-polyester for quick-drying and durability

5. Organic Cotton Knit Fabric

With the rise of sustainable fashion, organic cotton knits are increasingly in demand. They are grown without harmful chemicals and often come with GOTS certification.

Applications:
Eco-friendly lines, babywear, ethical fashion labels, and sustainable basics.

Benefits:

• Non-toxic and skin-friendly

• Environmentally responsible

• Certifiable for green labeling

100% Cotton vs. Cotton Blends: Which Is Right for Your Line?

Choosing between pure cotton and blends depends on the garment type, customer base, and production budget.

Tip: Use 100% cotton for products where breathability and softness are top priorities. Choose blends for garments that require stretch or structure.

Buying Cotton Knit Fabric in Bulk

B2B buyers must consider more than just appearance and cost. The following factors are key when sourcing cotton knits at scale.

1. Buying by the Yard or Bolt

• By the yard = more flexible for sampling and small batches

• By the bolt = better pricing, often 50–100 yards/roll

2. Fabric Specifications to Review

• GSM (grams per square meter): Lightweight (~140–180), Medium (~180–220), Heavyweight (>220)

• Width: Typically 58–63 inches

• Finish: Brushed, enzyme-washed, bio-polished, etc.

• Shrinkage & stretch test data (essential for production)

3. MOQ & Lead Time

• MOQ starts from 100–300 yards per color for most mills

• Custom colors or finishes require longer lead times (2–4 weeks)

4. Supplier Evaluation

• Check for certifications (OEKO-TEX, GOTS)

• Ask for swatches or lab dips before sampling

• Confirm QC processes and bulk-to-sample consistency

Knit Cotton Fabrics by Season

Summer Cotton Knits

• Lightweight jersey or cotton-poly blends

• Ideal for tanks, skirts, casualwear

• Soft drape, breathable, dye-friendly

Example Keyword:
“cotton blend knit fabric for summer dress”

Fall/Winter Knits

• Sweater knits, fleece-back cotton, waffle knit

• Ideal for sweatshirts, outerwear, and loungewear

• Often blended with spandex or polyester for warmth and stretch

Trends & Seasonal Color Options

Valentine Colors: Pink & Red Knit Cotton

• Popular for themed capsule collections

• Available in bolt or yardage for wholesale

• Pre-dyed and reactive printed variants for seasonal launches

Example Keywords:
“cotton knit fabric pink red wholesale”
“valentine knit cotton fabrics bolt”

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Knitted Fabric Always Cotton?

No. While many knitted fabrics are cotton-based, they can also be made from rayon, viscose, polyester, bamboo, or wool blends. Always check fiber composition.

How to Sew Cotton Knit Fabric?

Use a ballpoint needle, stretch stitch or zigzag stitch, and a walking foot if needed. For factories, flatlock or overlock machines are standard.

What’s the Best Cotton Knit for T-Shirts?

Lightweight jersey knit (140–180 GSM) is best for most T-shirt applications, offering softness and breathability.

What Does “By the Yard” Mean for Bulk Buying?

It refers to fabric sold in linear yards. B2B buyers often purchase by bolt or kilogram depending on production needs.