About interlock
Interlock is a double knit in which two 1x1 rib structures are knitted together into a single fabric, so both sides show the same smooth, jersey-like face. Compared with single jersey it is thicker, more dimensionally stable, and more premium in hand, and its cut edges do not curl, which makes for cleaner cutting and sewing.
Cotton interlock is the standard choice for baby and kids wear, premium tees, and loungewear, where a soft, substantial hand matters. Polyester interlock takes all-over sublimation printing cleanly, making it a strong base for athleisure programs. We source and develop interlock styles from 50 pieces per style.
Quote with Interlock| Typical weight | 200–280 GSM |
|---|---|
| Composition | Cotton, cotton-spandex, polyester, or modal blends |
| Knit | Interlock (double knit, both sides smooth) |
| Feel | Smooth, soft, substantial; excellent shape retention |
| Edge behavior | Does not curl at cut edges |
| Best decoration | Screen print, embroidery; sublimation on poly interlock |
What we make with interlock
Advantages
- Smooth on both sides, no distinct back face
- Thicker and more stable than single jersey
- Edges do not curl, so seams sew flat and clean
- Premium hand with a soft, structured drape
- Resists bagging and twisting through repeated wash
- Poly interlock holds fine detail in sublimation printing
Good to know
- Heavier and warmer than single jersey, so less suited to lightweight summer tees
- Uses more yarn than jersey, so fabric cost typically runs higher for the same fiber content
- Moderate stretch with less recovery than rib; add spandex for fitted styles
- Cotton interlock should be compacted or pre-shrunk to control shrinkage
Interlock — common questions
What is interlock fabric?
Interlock is a double-knit fabric in which two 1x1 rib structures are knitted together, so both sides look and feel like the smooth face of a t-shirt knit. It is thicker, more stable, and more premium in hand than single jersey, typically running 200–280 GSM.
What is the difference between interlock and single jersey?
Interlock is a double knit: thicker, smoother on both sides, more dimensionally stable, and its cut edges do not curl. Single jersey is a lighter single knit with a distinct face and back that curls at the edges. Interlock typically weighs 200–280 GSM versus around 140–180 GSM for jersey.
Is interlock fabric good for baby clothes?
Yes. Cotton interlock is a standard fabric for baby and kids wear because it is soft, smooth on both sides, and stays stable through repeated washing. We can develop it with OEKO-TEX or GOTS certified yarns on request.
Is interlock fabric stretchy?
Interlock has moderate mechanical stretch, mostly across the width, but less snap-back recovery than rib knit. For leggings or fitted silhouettes, a cotton-spandex interlock adds the recovery needed to hold shape.
Can interlock fabric be sublimation printed?
Polyester interlock takes all-over sublimation printing cleanly because its smooth double-knit surface holds fine detail and color. Cotton interlock is better suited to screen printing and embroidery, both of which we run in-house.
Want a interlock sample?
We'll send swatch options and quote your style on this fabric — low MOQ from 50 pcs, DDP worldwide.
Request a Quote