Single Yarn And Two-ply Yarn

Definition and Overview

Single yarn is thread made by using one spun yarn as is. Two-ply yarn is thread made by twisting two single yarns together, and is also called two-strand yarn. In woven fabrics it is used as warp and weft, and in knits as knitting yarn, influencing the properties of the textile.

Two-ply yarn is generally made by twisting in the direction opposite to the twist added to the single yarn, in order to suppress twist liveliness. However, thread thickness, material, number of twists, and dyeing and processing conditions also affect quality, so fabric performance is not determined by whether it is single yarn or two-ply yarn alone.

Characteristics

Single yarn is relatively soft and tends to make it easier to express lightness and a natural fullness. On the other hand, yarn hairiness and the effect of twist can more easily appear on the surface, so depending on the applications and quality conditions, it is necessary to check strength, fuzzing, and skewing.

By twisting together two yarns, two-ply yarn generally makes it easier to achieve yarn uniformity and strength, and is considered likely to produce a fabric with a more even surface. In shirting fabrics, it may be used when a neat appearance, moderate firmness, and durability are desired.

• Even with the same count notation, the actual yarn thickness and fabric impression differ depending on whether it is single yarn or two-ply yarn.
• Two-ply yarn is a term indicating a structure in which two yarns are twisted together, and is not a name for a type of material.
• Three or more single yarns twisted together are handled as plied yarn or multi-ply yarn.

Main Applications

Single yarn is used for shirts, blouses, cut-and-sewn items, linings, thin woven fabrics, and knits that make use of lightness and a soft feel. However, even for the same item, the suitable yarn structure differs depending on fiber type, count, density, and construction.

Two-ply yarn is seen in shirting fabrics that emphasize surface neatness and durability, woven fabrics for uniforms and workwear, and fabrics for jackets and pants. It is not limited to heavy fabrics, and may also be used for delicate fabrics made from fine single yarns twisted into two-ply yarn.

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting fabric, in addition to the single yarn or two-ply yarn indication, check the blend ratio, count, warp and weft construction, woven or knitted structure, density, and industry weight. At the planning stage, it is important to evaluate the desired hand feel, strength, seam appearance, and dimensional change after washing with actual samples.

In sewing, high-density woven fabrics made with two-ply yarn require attention to needle penetration and puckering, and the needle size, thread, and sewing conditions should be set to match the fabric. For fabrics made with single yarn that are prone to fuzzing, or fabrics with loose twist, check in advance for fraying at cut edges, seam slippage, and surface changes after washing.

Differences from Similar Terms

Twisted yarn broadly refers to the act of applying twist to multiple yarns or fiber bundles, or to yarn made in that way. Two-ply yarn is a type of twisted yarn, but it specifically refers to the structure of twisting together two single yarns. Therefore, twisted yarn and two-ply yarn are not synonymous.

High-twist yarn refers to yarn twisted more than usual, and is a classification separate from single yarn or two-ply yarn. Both single yarn and two-ply yarn can be designed with high twist. Also, count is a scale indicating yarn thickness, and is distinguished from single yarn and two-ply yarn, which indicate how many yarns are twisted together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is two-ply yarn always stronger than single yarn?

Two-ply yarn is generally a structure that makes it easier to achieve strength and uniformity, but it is not necessarily stronger than single yarn under all conditions. Results vary depending on the raw material, single yarn thickness, number of twists, spinning method, and weaving or knitting conditions, so tear strength and abrasion resistance as a fabric are also checked.

What do fabric notations such as 80/2 mean?

Generally, "80/2" is used as a symbol meaning two-ply yarn made by twisting together two single yarns equivalent to 80 count. However, because count notation methods and applicable ranges can differ depending on fiber type and trade practice, the yarn specification should be checked in the spec sheet.

Can single yarn and two-ply yarn be identified by appearance alone?

In some cases, tendencies can be inferred from surface fuzz, luster, and the level of neatness, but it is difficult to determine with certainty from appearance alone. The impression changes especially depending on processing, dyeing, and whether there is fuzzing. For accuracy, check the fabric specifications and yarn construction information.