What Is Ribbed Fabric? Characteristics, Texture and Uses

Introduction

Ribbed fabric is a knitted fabric known for its raised vertical lines or textured surface. Unlike a smooth knit fabric, ribbed fabric has a distinct surface texture created by its knitting structure.

Because of its texture and stretch, ribbed fabric is commonly used in apparel where both appearance and fabric flexibility are important.

What Does Ribbed Fabric Look Like?

The most noticeable feature of ribbed fabric is its raised rib texture.

The ribs usually run vertically along the fabric, creating a striped or textured appearance. Depending on the knitting structure, the ribs can be fine and subtle or wider and more pronounced.

This gives the fabric a different visual effect from plain, smooth knitted fabrics.

How Is Ribbed Fabric Made?

Ribbed fabric is produced using a knitting structure that creates alternating raised and recessed sections on the fabric surface.

This structure can also give the fabric good natural stretch and flexibility.

The final properties depend on factors such as:

• Yarn composition

• Knitting structure

• Rib width

• Fabric weight

• Finishing process

Therefore, not all ribbed fabrics have the same hand feel, thickness, or stretch.

What Are the Main Characteristics of Ribbed Fabric?

1. Textured Surface

The rib structure gives the fabric a three-dimensional appearance.

This can add visual interest to garments without requiring additional printing or decoration.

2. Stretch and Flexibility

Ribbed knitted structures can provide good flexibility, making them suitable for garments that need to move with the body.

When elastane or spandex is included in the fabric, stretch and recovery can be further enhanced.

3. Distinct Hand Feel

Compared with smooth knitted fabrics, ribbed fabrics have a more noticeable surface texture.

The hand feel can vary depending on the yarn, rib structure, and fabric weight.

4. Fabric Appearance

The ribbed texture creates a simple but recognizable visual effect.

It can be used to give swimwear, activewear, and other apparel a more textured appearance.

Ribbed Fabric for Swimwear

Ribbed fabric can also be used for swimwear when the fabric construction and fiber composition are suitable for the application.

For example, Hongjun Textile offers a Textured Ribbed Polyester Spandex Fabric at 270GSM for swimwear and beachwear.

For this type of fabric, the ribbed texture is part of the fabric's overall appearance rather than simply a surface decoration.

What Should You Consider When Choosing Ribbed Fabric?

When selecting ribbed fabric, it is useful to look beyond the surface texture.

Consider:

• Fiber composition

• Fabric weight

• Stretch and recovery

• Rib structure

• Hand feel

• Intended garment use

The right combination depends on the requirements of the finished garment.