What is Jersey?

Jersey is a general name for knitted clothing fabrics. Single jersey is usually made as a plain knit, with right-side stitches on the front and left-side stitches on the back. This gives the fabric a smooth face, a softer reverse side and natural stretch, especially in the width.

Jersey can be made from cotton, viscose, polyester, wool or blends. Elastane is often added to improve stretch, recovery and wearing comfort. Because jersey is knitted rather than woven, it behaves differently during cutting and sewing and needs a stitch type that can move with the fabric.

Specifications

Construction Knitted fabric, often single jersey or other weft-knitted structures
Composition Can be made from cotton, viscose, polyester, wool or blends, often with elastane
Fabric weight Usually light to heavy, commonly around 140 to 300 g/m², depending on fibre, yarn thickness, knit density and finishStretchModerate natural stretch; good stretch and recovery when elastane is added
Abbreviations CO = cotton, CV or VI = viscose, PES = polyester, WO = wool, EL = elastane
Appearance Smooth face side, softer reverse side, flexible drape, soft and comfortable touch

Jersey

Jersey is a knitted fabric known for its soft hand feel, comfortable stretch and flexible drape. Unlike woven fabrics, jersey is made with interlocking loops, which gives it natural elasticity and makes it easy to wear. The front side often looks smoother, while the reverse side can show a more looped or slightly textured structure.

Jersey is widely used for garments that need comfort, movement and a close or relaxed fit. Depending on the fibre composition, weight and knit structure, jersey can feel light and fluid, firm and stable or warm and compact. Common versions include cotton jersey, viscose jersey, polyester jersey and jersey with elastane.

Applications

T-shirts and tops
Dresses and skirts with stretch
Leggings and fitted garments
Loungewear and pyjamas
Underwear and base layers
Casual trousers and jumpsuits

Care Instructions

Jersey is usually washable at 30 to 40°C, depending on the fibre composition and colour. Wash inside out to help reduce pilling and protect the surface. Do not bleach. Air drying is preferred for jersey with elastane, as high-temperature tumble drying can affect stretch recovery. Iron at low to medium temperature on the reverse side, depending on the fibre content.

Certifications

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may be available depending on the specific article. Organic cotton, recycled polyester, Lenzing EcoVero or other certified fibre variants may be available depending on the fabric and supplier.

Practical Tip

Use a stretch stitch, narrow zigzag or overlock seam when sewing jersey, so the seams can move with the fabric. A ballpoint or jersey needle helps prevent skipped stitches and damage to the knitted loops.

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posted on
05/06/2026