Interlock vs. Overlock — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 30, 2023
Interlock is a knitting method creating a double-layer fabric, while overlock is a stitching technique that encloses the edge of the fabric to prevent fraying.
Difference Between Interlock and Overlock
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Key Differences
Interlock refers to a type of knit fabric that is created by interlocking two layers of jersey knit, resulting in a surface that looks the same on both sides. It's known for its smooth texture and stability, making it ideal for garments that require a bit more structure. Overlock, on the other hand, is a method of seaming that involves stitching over the edge of one or two pieces of cloth for edging, hemming, or seaming. The overlock stitch requires a specialized sewing machine, commonly known as a serger, which can cut the edges of the cloth as they are fed through the machine.
While interlock fabric provides a comfortable stretch and is often used for high-quality t-shirts and baby clothes, overlock is not a fabric but a finish that's typically used on the raw edges of fabric to prevent fraying and provide a clean finish. This distinction is essential in the textile and garment manufacturing industry, as interlock and overlock serve very different purposes.
Interlock fabrics are known for their stretchiness and softness, offering a good degree of elasticity without using spandex. This knit fabric is often used for sportswear and loungewear. Overlock stitching, in contrast, provides a professional finish to the seams of garments and is essential for preventing the raw edges from unraveling, especially on fabrics that are prone to fraying.
When comparing the construction, interlock is made on a knitting machine where two layers of jersey are knitted together. It's often preferred for creating reversible garments due to its identical sides. The overlock stitch, however, involves looping thread over the edge of the fabric, which creates a neatly finished edge but is not usually intended to be visible from the outside of the finished garment.
In summary, while interlock fabric is appreciated for its aesthetic qualities and comfort, overlock is a technique appreciated for its practicality and the durability it adds to the seams and edges of fabric. Both are integral to the textile industry, fulfilling roles that contribute to the quality and finish of textile products.
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Comparison Chart
Type
Knit fabric
Stitching technique
Purpose
Creating double-layered fabrics
Encasing fabric edges
Machine
Knitting machine
Serger
Appearance
Same on both sides
Visible looping over the edge
Use in Garments
Often used for whole garments
Used for finishing garment edges
Stretch
Naturally stretchy
Provides edge stretch stability
Finish
Smooth and flat
Wrapped thread edge finish
Compare with Definitions
Interlock
In computing, to lock one process until another process completes;
The database uses interlock protocols to maintain data integrity.
Overlock
A method used to prevent fraying on fabric edges;
Overlock the edges of the tablecloth to ensure longevity.
Interlock
A double-knit fabric with a smooth surface on both sides;
The baby's onesie was made of soft interlock for extra comfort.
Overlock
In construction, a finish technique on the edges of material;
The seams were overlock stitched for extra strength.
Interlock
To connect two things so that they cannot move independently;
The puzzle pieces interlock seamlessly.
Overlock
A stitch that sews over the edge of one or two pieces of cloth;
She used an overlock stitch to finish the raw edges of the skirt.
Interlock
A method to intertwine threads or yarns in a textile;
The curtains were made from a delicate interlock of silk threads.
Overlock
To sew with a serger sewing machine that cuts the edges as it sews;
After cutting the fabric, I will overlock the pieces before assembly.
Interlock
In mechanics, a device or mechanism to prevent certain movements;
The gears interlock to ensure synchronized operation.
Overlock
A stitch that creates an edging on fabric;
The overlock gave the napkins a professional look.
Interlock
(of two or more things) engage with each other by overlapping or by the fitting together of projections and recesses
Their fingers interlocked
Overlock
An overlock is a kind of stitch that sews over the edge of one or two pieces of cloth for edging, hemming, or seaming. Usually an overlock sewing machine will cut the edges of the cloth as they are fed through (such machines being called sergers in North America), though some are made without cutters.
Interlock
A device or mechanism for connecting or coordinating the function of different components
A safety interlock to stop the blades spinning
Overlock
Strengthen and prevent fraying of (an edge of cloth) by oversewing it
The seams are well stitched and overlocked to prevent fraying
Interlock
A fabric knitted with closely interlocking stitches allowing it to stretch
A cotton interlock in black or plum
A dress in soft interlock
Overlock
(sewing) A stitch that sews over the edge of one or two pieces of cloth for edging, hemming or seaming.
Interlock
To unite or join closely as by hooking or dovetailing.
Overlock
(sewing) To stitch in this manner.
Interlock
To connect together (parts of a mechanism, for example) so that the individual parts affect each other in motion or operation.
Overlock
(transitive) To make the bolt of a lock go too far.
Interlock
To become united or joined closely, as by hooking or dovetailing.
Interlock
A mechanical device that prevents a component from functioning when another component is functioning or situated in a particular way.
Interlock
A stretchy fabric knitted with interlocking stitches by alternating sets of needles on a circular knitting machine.
Interlock
(ambitransitive) To fit or clasp together securely.
Interlock
To interlace.
Interlock
A safety device that prevents activation in unsafe conditions.
The demonstrator couldn't figure out why the machine wouldn't work, until he remembered that there was an interlock so it wouldn't operate with the cover open.
Interlock
To unite, embrace, communicate with, or flow into, one another; to be connected in one system; to lock into one another; to interlace firmly.
Interlock
To unite by locking or linking together; to secure in place by mutual fastening.
My lady with her fingers interlocked.
Interlock
To connect together so that the parts work together as a coordinated unit; to connect as a single system.
Interlock
The act of interlocking or meshing;
An interlocking of arms by the police held the crowd in check
Interlock
Coordinate in such a way that all parts work together effectively
Interlock
Hold in a locking position;
He locked his hands around her neck
Interlock
Become engaged or intermeshed with one another;
They were locked in embrace
Common Curiosities
Can interlock fabric be used for sportswear?
Yes, its stretch and recovery make interlock suitable for sportswear.
What is interlock fabric?
Interlock is a soft, double-knit fabric with a fine rib on both sides, often used for clothing.
How is overlock stitching unique?
Overlock stitching encases the edge of fabric to prevent fraying, often done with a serger.
When should I use overlock stitching?
Use overlock stitching to finish edges and seams, especially if the fabric frays easily.
Is overlock stitching visible on the outside of garments?
Typically, overlock is not visible on the outside, as it's used for seam finishing.
Can you create an interlock stitch with a regular sewing machine?
No, interlock is not a stitch but a fabric created on a knitting machine.
What garments are typically made with interlock?
Interlock is often used for t-shirts, leggings, and babywear.
What's the main advantage of interlock fabric?
Interlock fabric offers a smooth finish and is the same on both sides, ideal for comfort and aesthetics.
Are interlock and overlock the same?
No, interlock is a type of fabric, while overlock is a stitching technique.
Is overlock stitching strong?
Yes, overlock stitching is strong and durable, ideal for seams that undergo stress.
What is the difference in the stretch between interlock and overlock?
Interlock fabric stretches due to its knit, while overlock stitching allows the seam to stretch without breaking.
Can interlock fabric fray?
No, the double-knit structure of interlock fabric prevents fraying.
Do I need a special machine for overlock stitching?
Yes, a serger is typically required for proper overlock stitching.
Are there different types of overlock stitches?
Yes, there are multiple overlock stitches, varying in the number of threads used and their purpose.
Can I use overlock stitching as a decorative element?
Yes, overlock can be decorative with colored or textured thread.
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Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
