Los Angeles - Following enhancements to the i-Plating flat knitting techniques, Shima Seiki USA has unveiled a new collection highlighting the possibilities of this technical innovation.

The “i” stands for inverse (reverse) and is an accessory that you can add to an SVR or N.SVR machine. Adding this allows for inverse-plating capabilities where different yarns can be shown alternately on the fabric surface for a jacquard-like effect in a plain jersey stitch.

This can be performed not only within the same course but also for each individual needle, so it has greater knitting efficiency and expanded capability when it comes to designs. By using i-plating, Shima Seiki says you can now achieve highly textured/uneven surfaces by combining a certain yarns.

Earlier this year, Shima Seiki USA featured an article highlighting “i-Plating” capabilities on its SVR knitting machines.

With warmer weather on the horizon, the latest collection includes lightweight patterned knits suitable for warmer seasons and in particular, the Jardigan (Jacket/Cardigan) style or Long-cardigans.

The sample shown above is a lightweight spring jardigan or long cardigan that was knit on the SVR123SPSV machine in a 14G texture. The style: I2225S009 uses 2 system knit for I-Plating to increase knitting efficiency.

The outcome is a thin, sheer, and lightweight fabric suitable for warmer seasons. Inverse plating can increase knitting efficiency by about 80 per cent and reduce weight by as much as 50% compared to tubular jacquard.

The second sample (pictured right) is a lightweight spring jardigan or long cardigan also knit on the SVR123SPSV machine but in a 14G texture. The style: I2267S00F uses a patchwork-like fabric combining inverse plating, intarsia, and back stitches.

The color blocks are created by combining four feeders of main yarn (BON120: silk yarn and PEP: polyester nep yarn) and 3 feeders of plating yarn (TAKUMI: Japanese paper polyester yarn).