Hi everyone!
I'm new to the world of textiles and fabrics, and I've been trying to understand the difference between woven and knitted cotton fabrics. I'm particularly interested in using cotton fabrics for my upcoming DIY projects and I want to make sure I choose the right type of fabric based on its properties and characteristics.
From my limited understanding, woven cotton fabrics are made by interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles to each other, creating a flat and sturdy fabric that is less stretchy than knitted cotton. Knitted cotton fabrics, on the other hand, are made by sticking loops of yarn together to create a softer, more flexible fabric that has more give and can stretch more easily.
But I'm still not quite clear on how these differences translate into different uses and applications. For instance, would woven cotton be better for making home decor items like curtains or cushion covers that need to be durable and hold their shape, while knitted cotton could be better for making comfortable clothing items like t-shirts or sweaters?
I'd love to hear from anyone who has worked with both types of fabrics and can help me understand their properties and uses better. Thanks in advance!

Hi there,
I've worked with both woven and knitted cotton fabrics in various DIY projects, and in my experience, both types of fabrics have their unique benefits.
Woven cotton fabric is ideal for making structured items like pillow covers and curtains, as it holds its shape well and is less likely to stretch out of shape. It also has a flat surface that lends itself well to printing and painting. However, it's worth noting that some woven cotton fabrics can be prone to wrinkling, which may be a consideration if you're making an item that needs to look neat and tidy over time.
Knitted cotton fabric is perfect for making soft, comfortable items like pajamas and sweatshirts. It's stretchy and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for garments that need to move with your body. However, knitted cotton can be slightly more challenging to sew than woven cotton, as it may curl at the edges or develop runs if not handled correctly.
Overall, I think the best fabric to use depends on the project you're working on and the specific properties you're looking for. Take into consideration factors such as durability, structure, flexibility, and stretch to choose the right fabric for your project.
I hope this helps!