6 Knitwear Tips for Emerging Brands
New to knitwear? It’s a world that blends textile art and engineering—every stitch matters! Designers often don’t realize just how different knitwear is from wovens, so here are a couple things to help you start your knit journey.
Yarn Isn’t Just Material; It’s Exploration
Yarn choice isn’t just about color or feel; it’s the foundation of your brand’s narrative. Picture it as your brand’s "voice," speaking to your customers about who you are.
Think Beyond Softness: Explore fiber blends like silk-wool for unexpected textures, or hemp for a raw, eco-friendly vibe.
Match Yarn to Purpose: Cashmere is dreamy, but does it align with your goal for a rugged, durable sweater? Choose based on what your pieces need.
Play with Texture: Experiment with unusual fibers like biodegradable nylon or space dyed yarn to create a story of innovation and sustainability in every piece.
2. The Power of a Good Stitch
Your choice of stitch can completely redefine a garment’s look, durability, and vibe. Think of stitch techniques as your “paintbrushes”—each one bringing its own unique flair to your collection. You can do SO MUCH with fun stitches!
For Intrigue and Depth: Try out techniques like brioche for a pillowy softness or honeycomb for a 3D effect, adding layers of interest and visual texture.
Weatherproofing Secrets: If warmth is a priority, consider closed stitches (like garter or moss) that trap heat, while open stitches (like lace) bring breathability.
Get into Gauge: The same yarn can look and behave differently based on stitch tightness—perfect for adjusting weight, feel, and drape for each design. If you’re having a hard time understanding gauges, book a call with me and we can chat :)
3. Nail the Fit—It’s More Than Just Sizes
Fit is everything in knitwear, but it’s easy to overlook the unique stretch and recovery properties that yarn and construction bring. You know why you don’t hang dry knitwear? Because knitting is done and in loops and these loops stretch, especially with added water weight. Don’t let the knit-flexibility scare you, to create a truly versatile garment, embrace knitwear’s natural ability to flex, mold, and adapt.
Beyond Standard Sizing: Leverage knitwear’s stretch to create “size-fluid” pieces—designs that fit a range of body types with ease.
Test the Bounce: Different fibers recover differently; a cotton blend might keep its shape better in a ribbed structure, while cashmere works wonders in looser, drapey fits.
Don’t Ignore Weight Distribution: Heavy knits can stretch downward over time, so design with reinforcement in mind for lasting, reliable fits.
4. Partnering with Local or Small-Batch Yarn Suppliers? Here’s the Inside Track
Sourcing locally or with small-batch suppliers can give your collection a unique edge, with fibers that speak to sustainability and artisanship. Side note: If you’re in New York in autumn, check out the Sheep and Wool Festival . It’s a must-see if you’re into knits.
Know Your Supplier’s Story: A great yarn supplier will often have a rich history in fiber production—learn and share these stories to deepen your brand’s authenticity.
Ask About Dyeing Techniques: Hand-dyed yarns can add depth and variation to your collection, while plant-based dyes are great for eco-conscious collections with organic vibes.
Limited Editions: Small-batch suppliers can offer unique fibers that aren’t widely available, making limited editions—which we LOVE—within your collection an instant draw.
5. Experiment with Negative Space—It’s Not Just for Art!
The use of “negative space” in knitwear design can take a garment from basic to boundary-breaking. Think of it as the blank canvas within each piece.
Strategic Openwork: Use open-knit structures like mesh or ladder stitch to play with transparency and layering potential.
Add Airiness with Intention: If you’re creating summer knitwear, openwork gives an airy, breathable structure without sacrificing design.
Create Visual Drama: Contrasting open and dense sections can add drama and balance to a piece, drawing the eye and creating a more complex silhouette.
6. Collaborate with a Knitwear Designer Early in the Process
An experienced knitwear designer can save you from beginner pitfalls, help you master tricky stitches, and add polish to your concept. Consider them a partner in creating pieces that look (and wear) effortlessly.
Brainstorming Buddy: A good knitwear designer can bring fresh ideas, introduce advanced techniques, and guide you in avoiding beginner mistakes.
Consider Construction Early: Knitwear isn’t just flat fabric—consider elements like seams, weight distribution, and “knit-in” shaping that save time and add polish.
Efficient Sampling: Work closely to get prototypes that capture your vision without over-complicating the process; they can keep you on track with just the right level of complexity.
Thomé Studio: Here to Help You Make Knitwear a Core Part of Your Brand
I’m Amanda, knitwear designer at Thomé Studio. I work with brands to develop knitwear collections that are rich in character, thoughtful in construction, and aligned with your brand’s identity. If you’re ready to dive into knitwear with confidence, reach out. Together, we’ll craft pieces that stand out, tell a story, and feel like your brand in every stitch.
Message Me! Let's make your brand’s first steps into knitwear not only smooth but unforgettable.
Much love,
Amanda