Spacer Fabric How It Changes with Construction and Elastane Content
Spacer Fabric does not stay constant when construction changes. Understanding the direction of change helps during development.
Effect of knit structure
Loop length and density move results first, usually before any yarn change is made. Working figures for Spacer Fabric normally sit around 250-450 GSM in mainstream production. Note double Raschel machines on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Effect of elastane content
More elastane raises recovery but changes the value measured by double Raschel machines, so retest after any blending change. Record elastane content alongside Spacer Fabric, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside 250-450 GSM usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
Effect of finishing
Heat setting and softeners shift results, which explains differences between a hand sample and bulk. Keeping reference values for Spacer Fabric lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with double Raschel machines, since both affect the reading.
Typical range
Working values stay around 250-450 GSM for mainstream activewear. Working figures for Spacer Fabric normally sit around 250-450 GSM in mainstream production. Note double Raschel machines on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Development advice
Change one variable at a time, then verify against double Raschel machines before moving to the next sample round. Record elastane content alongside Spacer Fabric, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside 250-450 GSM usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
