When choosing a fabric, there are many different types of knits to choose from. Most any fabric that is stretchy is considered a knit fabric. But there are specific types of knit fabrics that are used to make certain types of items. The best way to control the knit size while knitting is through the knitting needles used and by yarn size.

There are many different ways to achieve a knit fabric, and an experienced knitter will know how to make many different knit styles with her or his knitting needles. Some common knits are: the double knit, the sweatshirt knit, the jersey knit, ribbing, the spandex knit, the sweater knit, the interlock knit, the velour and velvet knit, and the fleece knit. The double knit fabric is a heavy to medium weight, and is generally used for designs such as pants and dresses.

The sweatshirt knit is generally used for clothing styles that have a sporty design. The jersey knit is a light to medium weight fabric and has ribs on one side, and horizontal lines on the other. Jersey knit fabrics are used for many different styles, such as dresses, skirts, sheets and more.

Ribbing is a tough fabric that is generally only used for cuffs and collars. A spandex knit is a very small knit, and is used when a lot of stretch is needed, such as in bathing suits. A sweater knit can vary from being the heaviest weight, to one of the lightest, depending on the yarn used.

An interlock knit is a light to medium weight, and has a light ribbing on both sides. This knit is used for anything from dresses to sleepwear. The velour knit is a shiny, stretchy fabric that can be used for anything from sweatpants to dress tops. A fleece knit is a bulky, soft fabric, usually used for outdoor garments or blankets.

There are more varieties of knits that can be knitted by hand than the average person might understand. There are some knit patterns that can only be done by a knitting machine, yet to make many designs, all that needs to change is the knitting needle size and the yarn weight.

The formula for creating different knit sizes and weights is quite simple; bigger needles and yarn weights make heavier patterns, while smaller needles and yarn weights make lighter patterns. Many knitting books go into more detail on this topic.

There are books that cover knit patterns for crocheting as well. Hand knit items will always carry a different look than machine knitted patterns, but the hand knitted look is often preferred by some people.

So now you know a little more about knits and how to knit them. It may surprise you to find out how many different fabrics can be knitted.

If you are part of a knitting club, then the members can guide you towards better knitting. However, if you don't have a club around, studying from the knitting books available will help tremendously towards improving your skills.