When looking into the world of fabrics and materials, some people may not know what slub knit fabrics are and what their best purpose is.
Sometimes the best way to know how to use a certain fabric is to understand its best qualities and what it’s popularly used for.
With materials like velvet and other popular forms of fabric usually taking all of the attention, we think it’s a good idea to try and help people find out all they need to know about slub knit fabric and what the material can be used for.
Follow the rest of our guide to find out just that!
What Is Slub Knit Fabric?
Slub knits are made from yarns that have been twisted or plied together in such a way as to give them a unique “slubby” feel.
In addition to this, these types of fabrics also tend to have more stretch than traditional knitted fabrics. This results in a softer, more plush-like texture.
The most common slub knits are those with a cotton content; however, many other types of slubs exist including wool, acrylic, nylon, polyester, etc.
All of these different types of slub knits are commonly used in various industries because of their qualities.
It’s important to note that slub knits are not always created using the same techniques.
Some companies create them by hand while others will use machines and different automated techniques to ensure that they get the perfect form of synthetic fibers, using a wide variety of ways to try and get their fabric to the best that it can be.
The best thing about slub knits is that they come in a huge array of colors, designs and patterns.
They’re often available in multiple sizes and shapes so you’ll never run out of options when it comes to finding something that fits your needs.
There’s no limit to the number of things that slub knits can do. You can make clothes, accessories, home decor items, toys, and even food.
Anything that you can dream up there’s likely a slub knit that could work perfectly for it.
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Different Types Of Slub-Knit Fabrics
As previously mentioned, slub knits are an incredibly versatile fabric. With that said, there are several different types of slub knit fabrics that you can choose from.
It’s possible to go through hundreds of different slub knits if you wanted to but we’ve narrowed down the list to only include the ones that are probably going to be most useful for your projects.
The following sections will look at each of these different kinds of slub knit fabrics and tell you exactly what makes them special.
Cotton Slubs
One of the most common types of slub knits is a cotton version.
Cotton is one of the most widely used natural fibers on the planet and has been around since ancient times.
Cotton is soft, breathable, durable, and easy to care for. If you want a fabric that feels nice against your skin, this is the option for you.
Cotton Slub Fabrics – Why Choose Them?
If you’re looking for a soft, cozy, comfortable fabric for yourself or others then you should consider getting a cotton slub.
These types of fabrics have great durability, which means that they won’t wear out quickly, are easy to clean, and provide excellent comfort.
Because of their low price point, cotton slubs are ideal for kids’ clothing and bedding, baby products, and household goods. They’re also some of the easiest fabrics to sew with as well.
Wool Slubs
Another popular type of slub knit fabric is a wool version. Wool is a very hardy fiber that provides incredible warmth and insulation.
Wools are usually quite thick as well making them very warm and luxurious, whilst still looking great aesthetically.
Wool Slub Fabrics – Why Choose Them?
If warmth and luxury are what you’re after then you needn’t look any further than a wool slub. Not only does wool keep you warmer than just about any other material, but it’s also extremely durable.
Wool slubs are also great for making socks, jackets, hats, scarves, blankets, and pillows. There are two main reasons why people love wool slubs.
First off, they’re extremely comfortable. This is especially true if you live somewhere cold where wool is required.
Secondly, the fact that they’re so thick and warm means that they’re more expensive than regular cotton slubs.
However, wool slubs offer much more than just comfort. For example, they’re incredibly strong and durable meaning that they can withstand high temperatures without melting away.
They’re also resistant to stains and dirt and don’t require any additional treatments or cleaning.
Acrylic Slubs
Like cotton and wool slubs, acrylic slubs are another popular choice amongst consumers.
However, unlike the previous options, acrylic slubs aren’t considered to be “wools” in the sense that they have similar properties.
Acrylics are often used for their lightweight characteristics, although because they’re synthetic they can be treated like any other fabric when it comes to washing, drying, etc.
Acrylic Slub Fabrics – How Do They Work?
Acrylics are typically made up of polymers (which are long chains of molecules) that give them their unique properties.
Because of this, acrylics can be dyed in many ways and come in a wide variety of colors.
In addition, they’re often quite thin and light in weight, so they work perfectly for use in children’s toys, luggage, shoes, and sports equipment.
The downside to acrylics is that they’re not as tough or durable as other materials.
This makes them a little less suitable for outdoor gear such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and coats. But thanks to their low cost, they’re still an affordable option.
Other Types Of Slubs
There are plenty of other types of slubs available, including bamboo, silk/cotton blends, cashmere, linen, rayon, flannel, microfiber, and even leather! Some of these fabrics may be suitable for certain applications while others will perform better for different purposes.
The best way to find out which ones suit you best is by experimenting with different combinations.
Slub Fabrics In Fashion Trends
One trend that has taken over the fashion world recently is slub knits. These are knitted fabrics that feature irregular holes and uneven stitches giving them either a fuzzy appearance or a smooth surface.
It’s believed that slub knits were first introduced around the 1950s and 60s.
Today, there are hundreds of designs being sold all over the internet, on Etsy, and at retail stores.
Many people choose to wear slubs because they feel that they add character to plain-looking garments.
Others simply enjoy wearing them because they think that they make the wearer appear stylish. Whichever reason appeals to you most, you’ll certainly find something that suits your style.
Popular Slub-Knit Clothing Items
Tank Tops
Tank tops are one of the easiest items to wear with slubs. Because they’re short, they look great worn with shorts or pants.
And since tank tops tend to be very comfortable, they’re perfect for casual days and days with lots of heat.
Long-Sleeved Shirts
Long sleeve shirts are also great for layering under sweaters, jackets, vests, and cardigans. Since they don’t have sleeves, they leave room for your arms to move freely.
Plus, they provide extra warmth, which is important during colder months.
Trouser Pants
Pants are another garment that looks great with slubs. If you want to layer your outfit, try pairing trousers with a sweater and multiple layers to ensure that you stay warm.
Sweater Sets
When it gets chilly outside, nothing beats a cozy sweater set. By pairing two buttoned-up sweaters together, you get a great amount of coverage without having to worry about looking bulky.
You can also pair them with jeans, leggings, skirts, and shorts for some fun new outfits.
Knitwear Accessories
In addition to clothing, slubs are sometimes paired with accessories such as scarves, hats, gloves, necklaces, belts, watches, socks, and scarves.
When choosing what kind of accessory to wear with slubs, consider whether you’d prefer something that stands out or something that blends in.
When Was Slub Knit Fabric Invented?
The exact date when slubs became popular isn’t known, but fashion experts believe that it was invented sometime between the 1930s and 1960s.
They say that the term “slub” comes from the British word “slubbing,” which means roughly “to rough up.” That’s why slubs are often referred to as “rough-knitting.”
How Are Slubs Made?
To create slubs, yarn manufacturers use a knitting machine called a loom. Looms work differently than regular knitting machines.
Instead of using needles to pull yarn through rows of loops, looms use metal pins to do this.
Loomers then cut the resulting fabric into strips and sew them together to form larger pieces. Afterward, those pieces are processed by hand so that their holes and stitching vary in size.
The result: irregular holes and uneven stitches.
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Which Type Of Slub Is Right For Me?
There are different types of slubs available today. Some are made from cotton, while others are made from blended materials like wool and acrylic. Here are three types of slubs:
1) Rambouillet
Rambouillet slubs are typically created from 100% merino wool. These slubs come in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from large to small.
They’re usually knit in worsted weight yarn (which has a tighter gauge), making them ideal for lightweight garments.
2) Finger Slubs
Finger slubs are typically knit from 100% acrylic. These slubs are knitted on smaller knitting machines, meaning they’re not big enough to make Rambouillet slubs.
While finger slubs are usually less expensive than Rambouillet ones, they lack the durability and longevity found in Rambouillet slubs.
3) Handmade Slubs
Handmade slubs are typically created with an unfinished edge. This gives them more flexibility than other slubs because they can be easily altered after being finished.
It also makes them easier to customize, allowing people to add details such as embroidery and lace.
What Is A Loom?
A loom is a machine used to create knitted fabrics. Loomers use these machines to produce slubs by cutting strips from woven cloth and sewing them together.
Looms were first used around the 18th century, and have been seen in the world of making clothes and fabric use ever since.
Types Of Slub Yarn
Slub yarns are very versatile. There are several types of slub yarns available, including:
Merino Wool
Merino wool is one of the most common types of slub yarn. It’s often described as a blend of cashmere and silk.
Because merino wool is considered soft and luxurious, it’s often used in slubs.
Acrylic
Acrylic is another type of yarn that’s commonly used to create slubs. Like merino wool, it’s a blend of cashmere, silk, and nylon.
Cotton
Cotton slubs are generally lightweight and durable. They’re often used to make clothing items like jackets or sweaters.
Other Fibers
Other fibers that are sometimes used to create slubs include wool, alpaca, bamboo, linen, nylon, rayon, and even plastic.
What’s The Difference Between Slubs And Knits?
The two terms aren’t exactly synonymous, although many people think they are.
Most people don’t realize that there are different types of slubby fabrics. Some of them are knits!
For example, you may have heard of “bamboo knits” or “rayon knits.” Those are blends of slubs and knits.
If you look closely, however, you’ll see that the slubs take precedence over the knits. This means that the knits will be softer and lighter than the slubs.
Another thing to consider is that slubs are generally much thicker than knits. So if you want something thick and heavy, then slubs might be a better option.
However, when you compare slubs to knits, you should keep in mind that slubs tend to be less flexible. That means that you won’t be able to alter them as easily as you would knit.
You could also find yourself having to buy additional yarn to complete projects.
When Should I Use Slubs?
If you work with a lot of stretchy knits, then slubs are probably not for you. However, if you enjoy wearing knits but wish you had more options, then slubs may be perfect for you.
If you’re looking for something extra special, then slubs are worth considering.
They can give your garments a unique feel and appearance. Plus, they’re cheaper than many other alternatives.
There are lots of positives to using slub knit fabrics, these include:
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Softness
Because they’re made out of slubs, they can be extremely soft.
This means that they’re great for lounging and sleeping, especially for younger children who need extra caution with their skin.
Durability
Since slubs are usually quite thick, they’re going to last longer than typical knits, saving you money in the long run.
Versatility
Because they’re so easy to customize, you can make them into anything you’d like.
Having the freedom to make your creations is always a great option to have when choosing what you have in your clothing arsenal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get your last-minute questions answered below!
What Kind Of Fabric Is Slub?
Slub cotton is a cotton-based material that looks like it has lumps in the fabric. This is down to the pre-weaving process where the cotton creates irregular twists.
This lovely fabric has a unique feel and texture.
What Is Cotton Slub Fabric Used For?
Slub textures are commonly used to improve the standard forms of materials like cotton and wool. It is usually heavier than these fabrics and will often be a lot more durable.
Is Slub Fabric For Summer?
Seeing soft lightweight shorts and light tank tops, slub yarns woven creates a rustic appeal that many people associate with summer and the warm weather that is seen throughout this season.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, slubs are a fun way to add a little bit of uniqueness to your wardrobe.
They come in all shapes and sizes, and they can transform any garment into something extraordinary.
They add extra features and positives to your clothing that other fabrics and materials can’t provide you with.
Slubs are a fun, creative alternative to knits.
When creating slubs, you can use multiple colors to make the patterns and designs of your wardrobe stand out and allow you to have a lot of creative freedom to your look.
Because of how popular these materials are in modern fashion, you can expect to see a lot of slub knit fabrics online and in lots of retail stores around the world.
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