What is a Raschel blanket, and how is it made? Making these blankets use Raschel Fabrics. Knitting this fabric uses a machine that has the same name, the Raschel machine.
Knitting has many types, and one of those is Raschel knitting which means that loops are present in the fabric, and the specific content is polyester. In British English, loosely knitted fabric means Raschel.
What Are Raschel Fabrics?
The fabric
Now, you may be wondering what type of fabric these Raschel fabrics are. Well, Raschel fabrics are warp-knitted fabrics. The zigzagging yarn along the fabric characterizes this method.
The front side of the fabric is well known for its knitted inclined vertical loops. The backside has horizontally ready floats. Both of which do not entangle.
Fabrics made by the Raschel knitting method do not extend much, and they are often significant. Due to this, it became known to confine the knitting method to make fabrics such as lace and trimmings.
Characteristics of the said fabric include the stability of dimension seen in the finished product, the uniformity of the density in a pile, the elasticity of the material, and how the hairs are not falling. Fabrics can also include different weights and patterns in the fabric nets, or a lighter lace in weight to stretch the material and the matting of heavy carpets.
The method
Warp knitting, one of the many knitting methods, is also known as the fastest method in producing materials made from yarn. The needles create simultaneous rows of loops parallel from each other, which interlock in a zigzag manner.
Ranking the same in importance with Tricot knit, the Raschel knit makes various products — including but not limited to spacer fabrics, sports nets, and mesh fabrics. This knitting method usually has a complex pattern like lace and uses heavy yarns as the key material.
Raschel knitting generally uses latch needles, and fabrics take on parallel the needle stem. Some examples of your day-to-day products that were made using the Raschel knitting method include bandages, pantyhose, and many more.
The machine
Raschel knit fabrics use the Raschel machine. These machines produce heavy material and have special needles called ‘latch needles.’
For fabrics that require fancy patterns, factories commonly use this machine due to its versatility. Because of this, Raschel machines are often compared with Tricot machines, which are less versatile in designing and styling.
This machine uses warp knitting, which is its default setting during production. Raschel knits have a coarser texture and are more open in construction than other warp knits.
These machines, however, require more maintenance due to their complexity. A single thread that breaks during manufacturing may be the cause of damage in the finished fabric structure.
The usage
The fabrics are made from filament or spun yarns that have different types and weights. Materials made from Raschel knitting are used primarily on athleticwear and sportswear.
Raschel fabrics have good qualities in draping, making them frequently used in lingerie, dresses, and coats as an unlined material. You may also see this in the military and outdoor fabrics, such as your pockets, backpacks, and pouches.
Manufacturers use Raschel fabric to provide a material with ventilated mesh in contact or close to the wearer’s body. They also provide visibility for pouch and pocket contents.
This material is also great in producing Raschel blankets, which are known for their breathability. They are made using special techniques and feel better and warmer compared to other coverings.
The quality
Raschel knit fabrics’ quality may range from being compact and dense to being lofty and open. These may either be stretchy or stable, and reversible or single-faced.
Materials of Raschel blankets have uniform density — very fluffy and soft. The feel of the vertical hair in this blanket doesn’t have issues in falling and is excellent. These are also wash-resistant, and therefore, the appearance has no deformation.
You may also notice that athleticwear and sportswear all have a standard quality — being breathable. The Raschel fabric used in these attires provides excellent ventilation, especially during exercises.
Why Are Raschel Blankets So Comfortable?
In comparison with other blankets, Raschel blankets provide an incredible feeling of comfort and softness. Their delicate fiber makes the blankets warm and breathable.
To maintain the blankets’ bright color, they possess digital staining. Also, it remains thick and closed, which makes it more unique.
Raschel blankets are applicable in any season. In winter, they provide warmth with their soft and thick fabrics. In spring and autumn, they are not only warm but also gentle.
You may use these blankets as a perfect quilt in summer with their excellent breathability. They feel much softer, and you will feel more comfortable than other blankets.
Conclusion
Having read the information above would provide you with all the information you need if someone asks you, “what is a Raschel blanket?”
Knowing what it is and how it is processed, you may now check your local department store for a Raschel blanket of your own. These blankets would provide softness and comfort and give a sense of safety and warmth.