What is interlock?
Interlock is a double-knit fabric — two layers of jersey knitted together so both faces are smooth. It is heavier, more stable and less prone to curling than single jersey, with less lengthwise stretch. In polyester it is the standard base for sublimated sportswear.
Why it matters
Its smooth, stable surface takes sublimation cleanly and holds a printed pattern flat, which is why football and cricket jerseys are interlock. In cotton it makes a dense, premium tee with a soft drape.
On our floor
Polyester interlock at 150–180 gsm is our sublimation base for kits and training wear; cotton interlock is available for premium tees on request.
Common questions
- Interlock or jersey for a t-shirt?
- Jersey for the classic tee hand; cotton interlock for a smoother, denser, more formal feel.
- Why is interlock used for sportswear?
- Polyester interlock is stable, wicking and takes sublimation evenly.
- Does interlock stretch?
- Across the width, less than jersey; it is more stable, which suits printed patterns.
- What weight is sportswear interlock?
- 150–180 gsm in polyester for jerseys and training tees.
Related terms
jersey
Jersey is the single-knit fabric of the t-shirt: a smooth face, a slightly looped back, stretch across the width and a tendency to curl at…
sublimation
Sublimation prints dye onto transfer paper, then presses it against polyester at around 200°C, where the dye turns to gas and bonds inside…
polyester
Polyester is a synthetic fibre that wicks moisture, dries quickly, resists shrinking and holds colour through hot washing. It is the fibre…
GSM
GSM is grams per square metre — how much a square metre of the fabric weighs. It is the single number that predicts most about how a…
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