What circular knitting means for the seams

Short answer: Circular knitted fabric comes off the machine as a tube with no side seams. That means fewer edges against the skin and no seam to rub at the side, but also a straighter fit.

A tube instead of two panels

A circular knitting machine knits in a round, and the result is a continuous tube that only needs closing at the top and bottom. Ordinary fabric is cut into two panels sewn together at the sides. That is why some styles of women's bamboo joggers have no side seam, and the fabric runs around the body in one piece.

Fewer seams, fewer weak points

Every seam is a place where fabric can open and where thread wears over time. A tube without side seams has two fewer seams than a garment made of two panels. That means fewer places where something can come undone. You can see it in the durability of many pieces among women's most popular.

Comfort without edges

A side seam is made of several layers of fabric and thread, and you can feel it against the skin, especially when lying down or moving a lot. Without a side seam there is no thickening at the side. That makes circular knitted clothing pleasant to sleep in and wear all day. Many find it softer, because the fabric is the same all round.

What you give up

Without side seams, the style cannot be shaped precisely at the waist, and the fit becomes straighter. A sewn style can be cut in at the waist and out over the hips, but a tube has the same width throughout unless the knit is changed. It is a trade off between comfort and shape. See how it is handled across our most popular styles.

How to spot it

It is easy to tell whether something is circular knitted. Turn the garment and look along the side. If there is no seam from armhole to hem, the fabric is circular knitted. Sometimes a stitched line is only decorative, so check the inside: a real seam has an edge of fabric and thread.

When the tube twists

Some circular knitted pieces twist slightly after washing, so an imagined side line moves toward the front. This happens because the direction of the knit can pull a little on the skew. It is not a sewing fault but a property of the fabric. Gently pull the garment straight while damp and dry it flat to reduce the effect.

When circular knit suits best

Circular knit is a good choice for clothing that sits close and where comfort matters more than a crisp shape. That covers underwear, tops and clothes for relaxing. For garments needing a defined waist or special silhouette, sewn styles are often better. Both have their place, and the choice comes down to your own preference.

Caring for circular knitted clothing

Wash circular knitted clothing at a low temperature and avoid high heat in the dryer. Dry it flat and smooth it with your hands so the tube lies straight. Avoid wringing hard, as this can increase the tendency to twist. With a little care in the wash, the fabric keeps its shape and softness for a long time.

Frequently asked questions

Can you tell if something is circular knitted

Yes, look for a side seam. If there is none, the fabric is circular knitted. A look at the inside will confirm it.

Is circular knit always better

Not always. It is more comfortable but less shaped, so it depends on whether you value comfort or a defined waist.

Can circular knitted fabric twist over time

Yes, some tubes twist slightly after washing because the knit pulls on the skew. Drying flat and reshaping while damp helps.