News Physics

Fiber friction is the key to cozy knits

Friction between loops of yarn give knit fabrics the ability to take on a variety of shapes

A close-up view of fingertips holding silver knitting needles, with light shining through the loose stitches in the cast fabric

Knit fabrics can form a variety of shapes, a phenomenon that helps the fabric to conform to the body.

Alexey Arz / Getty Images

By Emily Conover

A good sweater is like a cozy hug made out of yarn. For that, you can thank friction.

A new study reveals how knit fabrics can take on versatile shapes that allow them to conform to the contours of a head or a body.