Register Login
support
shop
menu
close
  1. Home
  2. Knowledge hub
  3. Fabric guide
  4. Ribbed
ribbed

What are ribbed fabrics?

Ribbed fabrics are fabrics with visible raised lines or ribs in the surface. These ribs can be created through knitting, weaving or a special surface structure. The rib direction, rib width and yarn type determine whether the fabric feels soft and stretchy, firm and structured or decorative.

Ribbed fabrics are relevant because they add texture, elasticity or visual depth without needing a print. They are used in both garments and interior textiles, depending on the construction and fibre composition.

Go to Ribbed

Specifications

  • Construction Knitted or woven fabric with visible ribs
  • Composition Cotton, polyester, viscose, polyamide, wool or blends, often with elastane in stretch versions
  • Fabric weight Commonly around 145 to 340 g/m², depending on rib size, yarn type, construction and intended use
  • Stretchability High stretch in knitted rib fabrics, little to moderate stretch in woven ribbed fabrics unless elastane is added
  • Abbreviations CO = cotton, PES = polyester, CV or VI = viscose, PA = polyamide, WO = wool, EL = elastane

Properties of the fabric

Ribbed fabrics are not one single fabric type, but a group of fabrics with a ribbed structure. In knitted rib fabrics, alternating knit and purl stitches create lengthwise ribs with good stretch and recovery. In woven ribbed fabrics, such as ottoman, bengaline or corduroy, the ribs are created by the weave structure or pile surface.

Knitted rib fabrics are usually flexible and suitable for close-fitting parts, while woven ribbed fabrics are often more stable and structured. The ribs can be fine, medium or wide, which affects the look, hand feel and garment shape.

Applications

  • Cuffs and waistbands.
  • Neckbands for T-shirts and sweaters.
  • Fitted tops.
  • Rib leggings.
  • Sweaters and cardigans.
  • Structured trousers or jackets in woven ribbed qualities.

Care instructions

  • Wash ribbed fabrics usually at 30 to 40°C, depending on fibre composition and finish.
  • Wash knitted rib fabrics inside out to reduce friction and surface wear.
  • Avoid high heat when elastane is included, as this can reduce stretch recovery.
  • Dry flat when the fabric is heavy or very stretchy to help prevent distortion.
  • Iron carefully in the rib direction and avoid pressing the texture flat.

Certificates

  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article.
  • GOTS may be possible for rib fabrics made from certified organic cotton or wool.

Practical tip

Check both the stretch direction and rib direction before cutting. For cuffs, neckbands and waistbands, stretch recovery is more important than rib texture alone.

Do you have a specific question about Ribbed or an application?
Our AI assistant will help you immediately.

Ask a question

Back

Written by

Dave Van der Steen Nooteboom Textiles

Posted on

Last updated on

Placed in

Added to cart

Welcome back

0
ART.NR.

You still have 0 articles in your cart

View cart Continue shopping