
Flat Knitting
New knitting technique adds bulk to WHOLEGARMENT knitwear

© Shima Seiki.
2nd February 2021
Knitting Industry
|
Wakayama, Japan
Leading flat knitting machine manufacturer Shima Seiki has developed a new knitting technique called AiryPique which adds bulk to its seam free WHOLEGARMENT knitwear products, which are normally naturally thinner, due to their single-layer construction. By combining two different yarns between outside and inside, Shima is able to achieve multi-functional garments depending on the yarns used.
Shima used Japanese paper yarn on the outside and antibacterial deodorizing cotton yarn on the inside, for a lightweight but bulky fabric
© Shima Seiki.
The AiryPique knit technique enhances design capability by changing yarn colours on the inside and outside, allowing for a reversible design. The short sleeve sweater (pictured above) was made on the Japanese company’s MACH2XS15L machine in a 15-gauge texture. “We used Japanese paper yarn on the outside and antibacterial deodorizing cotton yarn on the inside, for a lightweight but bulky fabric,” the company said.
© Shima Seiki.
The AiryPique knit technique enhances design capability by changing yarn colours on the inside and outside, allowing for a reversible design.
© Shima Seiki.
“The AiryPique knit technique was recently developed on our WHOLEGARMENT machines to improve the thickness and bulk of fabric whilst being lightweight,” explains Shima. “This long-sleeve pullover was made on our MACH2XS15L machine in a 15gg texture. We differentiated colours between the sleeve and body and used 52% upcycled cotton and 48% recycled polyester yarn to propose a sustainable garment.”
© Shima Seiki.
The AiryPique knit technique with the right yarn allows for increased heat retention.
© Shima Seiki.
“The AiryPique knit technique with the right yarn allows for increased heat retention as well,” Shima adds. When knitting with wool, the AiryPique structure tested 34% warmer compared to a traditional single jersey in the exact same yarn, it added. “This long-sleeve pullover was made on our MACH2XS18L machine in an 18gg ultra-fine texture. We used wool on the outside and extra-long-staple cotton on the inside, for a more comfortable touch, while providing more heat retention through the lofted AirPique Structure,” Shima concluded.

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