Pointelle
Pointelle is a knit fabric pattern with tiny holes typically in the shape of chevrons; the structure is geometric in shape and with repeated design similar to lace. It is a fine knit pattern with small open spaces, subtle stripe, and floral effects. The fabric is lightweight, airy, and of a very delicate nature. Pointelle is possible on warp knitting and weaving also.[1][2][3]
Etymology and origin
Origin, 1950s probably from point in the sense ‘lace made entirely with a needle’ + the French diminutive suffix -elle.[4][5]
Fabric construction
Pointelle fabric is an intricate pattern as compare to simple knitting structures like jersey fabric. In pointelle knitting, the yarn does not form a complete loop and create a hole. The pointelle knitting requires jacquard controlled knitting machines. The jacquard machines equipped with computers, wheels, punching cards etc., allow the knitter more adjustments of yarn feeding, knitting, and tucking positions. These settings help in producing required motifs and complex design and pattern making. The size of the pointelle holes is adjustable to an extent with needle selection on the machine. The resultant fabric is a lightweight delicate fabric, it is stretchable and comfortable to wear structure. In knitting, the transfer knit is used to create the design. It is possible with jersey and rib structures.[1]
Uses
It is used predominantly for clothing manufacturing, due to its appearance and fabric characteristics, it is suitable for Men's, kids wear and feminine dresses. The fabric is also used for cardigan,Tops, T-shirts, pajamas, night suits, and lingerie.[6]
References
- Humphries, Mary (2009). Fabric Reference. Pearson Prentice Hall. p. 165. ISBN 9788131765708.
- Textile Outlook International - Volumes 121-123. 2006. p. 190.
- "Product Guides - Glossary". web.archive.org. 2012-05-10. Retrieved 2020-10-27.
- "Pointelle | Definition of Pointelle by Oxford Dictionary on Lexico.com also meaning of Pointelle". Lexico Dictionaries | English. Retrieved 2020-10-27.
- "Definition of POINTELLE". www.merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 2020-10-27.
- Dancer, Teresa (2016). Pocket Handbook for Assistant Buyers. ISBN 9781483442440.