---
type: "fabric"
name: "Purl Knit"
slug: "purl-knit"
fabric_family: "knit_weft"
construction: "weft_knit"
typical_fibers:
  - "Wool"
  - "Cotton"
weight_gsm: "200–400 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/purl-knit"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:22:52.610872+00:00"
---

# Purl Knit

Purl knit is a versatile and textured knit fabric characterized by its distinct raised stitches, often used in sweaters and other garments that require warmth and elasticity.

- **Fabric Family**: Knit Weft
- **Construction**: Weft Knit
- **Typical Fibers**: Wool, Cotton
- **Weight**: 200–400 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 1.5–3.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Purl Knit

Purl knit is a type of weft knit fabric that features a unique construction where alternating rows of knit and purl stitches create a textured surface. This structure allows for excellent stretch and recovery, making it ideal for fitted garments. Typically made from fibers such as wool and cotton, purl knit is known for its softness and warmth, making it suitable for a variety of clothing items, especially in cooler climates. The fabric's elasticity and drape depend on the fiber content and the specific knit gauge used.

## Knit Properties

- **Wales per Inch**: 5
- **Courses per Inch**: 6
- **Knit Gauge**: 5G

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 30%
- **Weft Stretch**: 40%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 5 CFM
- **Spray Rating**: 0
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 0.5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.2
- **UPF Rating**: 15

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Semi Matte
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: textured
- **Hand & Drape**: Fluid

## Performance Features

- Stretch
- Wrinkle Resistance

## Common Finishes

- Brushed
- Anti Pilling
- Moisture Wicking

## Common Applications

- Sweaters
- Cardigans
- Activewear
- Accessories

## Common Uses in Detail

### Sweaters & Cardigans

The raised, textured stitches of purl knit make it ideal for cozy sweaters and cardigans. Its natural elasticity ensures a comfortable fit, while the looped construction traps warm air, making it especially well-suited for cold-weather outerwear in [Wool](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/wool) or [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton).

### Scarves & Accessories

Purl knit's inherent stretch and soft texture make it a popular choice for scarves, hats, and mittens. The fabric drapes comfortably against skin, retains heat effectively, and its distinctive ridged surface adds visual interest to finished accessories.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash on a gentle cycle with similar colors. Tumble dry on low heat or lay flat to dry. Iron on a low setting if necessary.

- Machine Wash Warm
- Do Not Bleach
- Tumble Dry Low
- Iron Low

## Additional Information

Purl knit fabrics can be blended with synthetic fibers for enhanced durability and moisture management. They are popular in both fashion and functional apparel.

- **Regional Names**: Purl knit, Rib knit
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, India, Turkey
- **Testing Standards**: Pilling, Colorfastness to wash, Seam slippage, Tear strength

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton.md)
- [Wool](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/wool.md)

## Similar Fabrics

- [Jersey](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/jersey.md) — Knit Weft
- [Pointelle](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/pointelle.md) — Knit Weft
- [Rib Knit](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/rib-knit.md) — Knit Weft
- [Sweatshirt Fleece](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/sweatshirt-fleece.md) — Knit Weft
- [Cable Knit Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/cable-knit-fabric.md) — Knit Weft

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*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/purl-knit) — HTML version of this page.*