Table of Contents
When it comes to custom fabric printing, knit fabrics are a popular choice for t-shirts, dresses, and sportswear. Among them, interlock knit and jersey knit stand out as two versatile options. But which one is better for printing?
In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between interlock fabric printing and jersey knit printing, helping you choose the right knit fabric for your next project.
👉 Want to explore more fabric options? Visit Our Fabrics page for detailed fabric choices.
What is Interlock Knit Fabric?
Interlock is a double-knit fabric, created by interlocking two layers of jersey. This makes it:
Thicker and heavier than jersey
Smooth on both sides
Stable, with less tendency to curl at the edges
Printing benefits: Interlock’s flat surface is ideal for digital printing and reactive dye printing, ensuring sharp details and vibrant colors.
According to Textile World, interlock is widely used in performance wear and baby clothing due to its durability.
What is Jersey Knit Fabric?
Jersey knit is a single-knit fabric known for its softness and breathability. It is one of the most common choices for casual wear.
Lightweight and comfortable
Stretchy, ideal for everyday t-shirts
More affordable than an interlock
Printing benefits: Jersey is excellent for sublimation printing (on polyester blends) and screen printing, making it suitable for lightweight, casual apparel.
As noted in the Printful Printing, jersey knit is one of the most common bases for fashion and everyday apparel.
Interlock vs Jersey Knit Printing: Key Differences
| Feature | Interlock Fabric Printing | Jersey Knit Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Double-knit, smooth both sides | Single-knit, smooth front, textured back |
| Thickness | Thicker, durable | Lightweight, breathable |
| Stretch & Stability | Moderate stretch, stable edges | Higher stretch, edges may curl |
| Print Quality | Sharp, vibrant, long-lasting | Softer prints, less vibrant |
| Best Printing Methods | DTG, reactive dye printing | Sublimation, screen printing |
| Common Uses | Premium t-shirts, babywear, sportswear | Casual t-shirts, dresses |
| Cost | Higher (premium quality) | More affordable |
Need to see the difference in real life? Order Swatches and compare interlock vs jersey printing results yourself.
Best Printing Methods for Interlock and Jersey Knit
Interlock: Works best with DTG (Direct-to-Garment) and reactive dye printing, ideal for detailed graphics and vibrant colors.
Jersey: Perfect for sublimation (on polyester blends) and screen printing, making it cost-effective for casual t-shirts.
Choosing the Right Knit Fabric for Your Project
When selecting between interlock vs jersey knit printing, consider:
Detailed artwork & premium quality → Choose interlock
Lightweight, everyday wear → Choose jersey
Durability for sportswear & babywear → Choose interlock
Budget-friendly casual apparel → Choose jersey
👉 Curious about how the process works? Visit our How It Works page to learn about our printing methods.
Where to Learn More About Knit Fabric Printing
If you want to explore further, here are some reliable references:
These resources, combined with our fabric printing services, will help you make the best decision for your project.
Final Thoughts: Interlock vs Jersey Knit Printing
Both interlock fabric printing and jersey knit printing have their advantages:
Choose interlock for durability, stability, and high-quality print clarity.
Choose jersey for lightweight, breathable, and affordable custom apparel.
👉 Next step: Explore Our Fabrics or Order Swatches to find the perfect knit fabric for your printing needs.
📚 FAQs About Interlock and Jersey Knit Printing
Q1: Which is better for vibrant digital prints, interlock fabric printing or jersey knit printing?
Interlock fabric printing is better for vibrant digital prints because the double-knit surface provides stability and sharp detail, while jersey knit printing works well for soft, breathable garments but may show less color saturation.
Q2: Is jersey knit printing durable enough for everyday custom t-shirts?
Yes, jersey knit printing is durable for everyday t-shirts, especially when using sublimation or screen printing. However, for heavy use or premium designs, interlock fabric printing is more long-lasting.
Q3: What are the main differences in interlock vs jersey knit printing for sportswear?
Interlock fabric printing offers higher durability and moisture resistance, making it ideal for sportswear and performance apparel, while jersey knit printing provides more stretch and comfort, suitable for activewear like yoga tops and leggings.
Q4: Can interlock fabric printing handle large custom designs better than jersey knit printing?
Yes, interlock fabric’s smooth and thick texture allows large custom designs to appear sharper and more detailed, while jersey knit printing may slightly distort larger prints due to its higher stretch.
Q5: Which fabric is best for eco-friendly custom fabric printing projects?
Both interlock and jersey knit can be eco-friendly if printed with water-based inks. For sustainable fashion projects, cotton-based interlock fabric printing provides durability, while polyester jersey knit printing works well for sublimation.
Q6: Should I order swatches before choosing between interlock and jersey knit printing?
Absolutely. Ordering swatches allows you to compare fabric thickness, texture, and print results before making bulk orders. Many printing services, including our fabric swatches pack, offer affordable test samples.
