Understanding Sweater Anatomy: Knitwear vs. Cut-and-Sew Explained

Whether you're a fashion buyer, brand developer, or simply curious about how your favourite garments come to life, understanding the difference between knitwear and cut-and-sew sweaters is essential. These two construction methods not only shape the look and feel of a garment but also influence its cost, flexibility, and production requirements.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key distinctions, practical identification tips, and what they mean for your sourcing decisions.

What Is Knitwear?

Knitwear refers to garments that are made by knitting yarn directly into shape—either by hand or machine. Each panel (front, back, sleeves) is knitted to size and then linked or sewn together.

Key Characteristics:

• Stretch & Texture: Naturally elastic due to the looped structure of the knit.

• Seam Finish: Often linked with minimal seam bulk; some styles are seamless.

• Customisation: Allows for intricate patterns like cables, ribs, jacquards, and intarsia.

• Production: Made on flatbed or circular knitting machines, with panels shaped during knitting.

Common Knitwear Styles:

• Sweaters

• Cardigans

• Knitted trousers or joggers

• Ribbed tops and dresses

Our Knitwear MOQ:

For knitted garments—including sweaters, cardigans, and pants—our minimum order quantity is 50 pieces per colour. This allows flexibility for smaller brands or capsule collections.

What Is Cut-and-Sew?

Cut-and-sew garments are made by cutting shapes from pre-knitted or woven fabric and stitching them together—similar to how shirts or jackets are constructed.

Key Characteristics:

• Fabric Origin: Uses yardage of knitted fabric (e.g. jersey, fleece) or woven fabric.

• Construction: Panels are cut from rolls and sewn using industrial machines.

• Finish: Often includes overlocking, hemming, and topstitching.

• Design Flexibility: Easier to apply prints, embroidery, or structured tailoring.

Common Cut-and-Sew Styles:

• Sweatshirts

• T-shirts

• Polo shirts

• Lightweight knit-look tops

Our Cut-and-Sew MOQ:

For cut-and-sew styles, our minimum order quantity is 200 pieces per design. This reflects the setup and fabric yield requirements typical of this method.

How to Tell Them Apart

Here are a few practical tips to distinguish between the two:

Feature	Knitwear	Cut-and-Sew
Fabric Feel	More elastic, looped texture	Smoother, flatter surface
Seams	Linked or hand-sewn	Overlocked or machine stitched
Pattern Integration	Built into the knit	Printed or appliquéd
Edge Finish	Often tubular or ribbed	Hemmed or bound
Label Description	May say “fully fashioned”	Often labelled “jersey” or “fleece”

Why It Matters for Brands

Understanding sweater anatomy helps you:

• Choose the right construction for your design intent (e.g. drape vs. structure)

• Communicate clearly with manufacturers and avoid costly misunderstandings

• Educate your customers on garment quality and value

• Plan your production around realistic MOQs and lead times

Both knitwear and cut-and-sew garments have their place in modern fashion. Whether you're after the sculptural beauty of a fully fashioned jumper or the casual ease of a jersey sweatshirt, knowing the difference empowers better design and sourcing decisions.

If you're considering a new collection or want help identifying your samples, we’re always happy to advise. Just drop us a line at info@chcashmere.biz .