3D Relief Knit
3D textured relief knits carry real depth - raised stitch structures that lift off the fabric and cast shadows under retail lighting. Known in the knit trade as the bitter-gourd stitch, this relief is knitted into the structure with a heavier yarn at a slow, controlled speed - and it finishes cleanly on both sides, which is exactly where cheaper machines fail.
How It Is Made
- 1
Yarn selection. Relief structures take a heavier yarn than flat jacquard. We select and Pantone-match the yarn for structure retention, not just colour.
- 2
Slow, controlled knitting. The raised stitch is knitted at reduced speed so the 3D structure sets cleanly - rushed machines crush the relief and lose the depth.
- 3
Structure check. Each panel is checked for relief height and consistency across the garment, not just at the sampler.
- 4
Finishing & QC. Careful washing and steaming to keep the relief raised, then final inspection with photos before dispatch.
What It Is For
- Premium seasonal programs where texture is the selling point
- Statement knits that photograph with real depth
- Brand capsules that need a structure competitors cannot quote
Our Capability
3D textured relief is one of our signature structures, knitted on the same 100+ computerized flat-knit machines as our sweaters in Dalang. MOQ is 100 pieces per design, samples in 72 hours, bulk in 2-3 weeks, DDP to the USA and EU. If another supplier turned the structure down, send it to us - complex relief at low MOQ is what our own floor is set up for.
FAQ
What is bitter-gourd knit?
It is the trade nickname for our raised 3D relief stitch - a repeating gourd-like texture knitted with a heavier yarn. The relief is part of the knitted structure itself rather than an add-on layer, so the reverse stays clean.
Is the reverse side clean?
Yes - that is the test. The texture is knitted into the structure, so the reverse finishes without the mess cheaper machines leave.
Does the texture cost more?
The slow knit and heavier yarn add cost versus flat jacquard - but you get a structure most factories cannot quote at all. Send your design for an exact price.
Send your artwork, get an honest recommendation
Not sure this is the right craft for your design? Send the artwork anyway - our in-house team will recommend the technique that renders it best and quote both options.
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