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Introduction to Yarn

The second module of Foundations of Industrial Knit as a separate, self-contained short course.
Delivery

Online 
Course

Level

Beginner


Duration

15mins video
+ more

Price

$50AUD


Course Overview

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Overview

This course is your starting point for understanding one of the most fundamental elements of knitting: yarn. Whether you're new to textiles or brushing up on the basics, this is where your yarn journey begins.

You will explore key terms like yarn count, gauge, fibre types, and certifications — giving you a well-rounded foundation in how yarn is sourced, classified, and applied in industrial knitting. This course can be taken as a standalone learning unit or as part of a broader pathway into knitwear development and manufacturing.

This course is for you if...

  • You are curious about how yarn is measured, sourced, and used in different knit applications.

  • You want a solid foundation in understanding gauge, yarn count, fibre types, and certifications.

  • You are looking to build confidence in working with yarn before moving into more technical or advanced knit projects.

Course Curriculum

Yarn & Gauge

Explore how yarn type and machine gauge work together to influence fabric thickness, drape, garment weight, and cost. With  garment examples and a breakdown of yarn count, this module equips you to make informed sourcing decisions based on gauge compatibility.

Yarn Count

Yarn count plays a critical role in shaping the texture, durability, and structure of your knit. This section breaks down how yarn is measured, the difference between direct and indirect systems, and how yarn count connects to machine gauge. Get the essential information you need to start making sense of yarn thickness—and how it can shape your design choices and machine compatibility.

Fibres

This topic looks at how fibre choice shapes comfort, performance, price, and sustainability in knitwear. You'll compare natural and synthetic options, assess fibre properties like micron and texture, and consider how material decisions influence garment quality and environmental impact.

Get a clear starting point for how fibre types influence design decisions, with practical guidance for making choices that balance creativity and sustainability.

Needles, Gauge and Yarn

This section breaks down how yarn count and machine gauge work together to shape fabric outcomes. You'll get an intro to how yarn thickness is measured and how needle spacing on different gauge machines affects the types of yarn you can use—laying the groundwork for confident material selection in any knit project.

Yarn Sourcing

This module shows how everything covered so far—fibre types, yarn count, gauge, and end use—comes into play when sourcing yarn. You’ll explore how to match material properties to your design goals, navigate certifications and sustainability considerations, and find practical sourcing options that work for different scales of production.


Yarn Certifications

Certifications help connect your sourcing decisions to broader values like sustainability, ethical production, and material quality. This final topic introduces key certification types and shows how they can guide your yarn choices—whether for fashion or industrial use—by aligning with brand values, consumer expectations, and industry standards.

Included in this course . . .

  • 15 minutes of video content breaking down each concept into digestible sections.

  • Supplementary materials with further explanations and supporting images.

  • Access to a community of learners and professionals to ask questions and share insights.

Your Instructor

Patricia brings over 15 years of dynamic experience in the circular, flatbed, and seamless knitwear industry, making her a leading expert in the field.

Her career has seen her excel in a variety of roles—product developer, designer, technician, programmer, and lecturer—giving her a rare and diverse skill set. With a strong foundation in both science and textiles, Patricia has become a recognised authority in knitwear innovation, design, and development, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the industry.

Beyond her leadership at Knovus and KNOLab, Patricia runs a thriving consulting practice, where she creates cutting-edge solutions for a wide range of industries. Her impressive portfolio includes everything from medical devices and furniture to sports accessories and fashion, showcasing her ability to innovate across diverse fields.