TEXTILES.ORG
Italian fashion label Napapijri, launched its latest innovative endeavor, “Ze-Knit” at Milan Design Week. The line of digitally-knitted urban “future wear” is the result of the label’s research into sustainable manufacturing alternatives.
Ze-Knit garments are digitally knitted from a single yard, which can mean up to 30 percent fabric waste reduction of raw material, water, and dye chemicals waste.
In traditional manufacturing, a thread is weaved into fabric, which is then tinted and cut into patterns. With Ze-Knit, a thread is tinted and knitted to flexible shapes. Layers of various wool densities are sewn together for extra warmth to provide more insulation where it’s needed in the garment.
A breathable coating wicks away moisture and a durable, water-resistant coating applied to the yarn helps to keep the wearer dry. Panels in strategic places on the garment capture and neutralize odor, and remove them when the garment is washed. The label partnered with Ze-knit’s manufacturer to investigate yarns and research body area data.