Tricot (pronounced tree-ko) is a type of warp knitted fabric very commonly used in making lingerie, as a lining material and in making dresses. Warp knitting is a type of knitting where the fibres making up the fabric run the length of the fabric as opposed to the breadth. These fibres are knitted in a zigzag pattern. This kind of knitting can be used with different types of fibres, from natural fibres like wool and cotton to synthetic fibres like nylon and rayon. Most often, a blend of fibres is used to make tricot clothing.In warp knitting, the number of yarn ends (separate strands of yarn) is equal to the number of stitches in one row, as the yarns are knit lengthwise. Hence, unlike weft knitting, warp knitting is almost never done by hand. Because it is such a specialized form of knitting, tricot manufacturers are required to invest in specialized equipment to set up a tricot factory.

In a tricot factory, the base material, whether it is wool, or cotton or nylon, is first selected, and then parallel threads of the required lengths are stretched out on a knitting machine. Once this is completed, the machine is activated. The machine loops adjacent threads around each other lengthwise, China Composite Fabric forming the tricot fabric. This unique production method also gives tricot its characteristic appearance where vertical ribs are present on the front of the fabric and horizontal ribs are present on the back.Tricot fabrics are usually made from synthetic materials, as they can withstand the lateral stresses, which come from the warp knitting techniques. Synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, acetate and tri acetate are most commonly used; with natural fibres like wool and cotton used less frequently.

Blended fabrics are also popular, with nylon blend adding strength and durability, and spandex adding flexibility (or stretchiness) to the cloth.Tricot has several advantages over other forms of knit clothing. Tricot is a soft and flexible material, and does not snag due to its unique knitting techniques. It also doesn't run easily due to the same reason. All this makes wool tricot very comfortable to wear. Tricot clothes also do not have a tendency to build up static charge, unlike other materials. This is an added advantage with tricot materials. There are a myriad of colours and varieties available, and their unique grain makes them really stand out among other fabrics.

That characteristic vertical grain on one side, and the horizontal grain on the other make tricot very recognizable.The main application for tricot is women's lingerie and undergarments -- usually nylon or woollen underwear for colder climates. But tricot and its applications aren't limited only to lingerie. They find several other applications as well, from linings, to making suitcases, hunting apparel, dresses etc.Since it is such a different fabric, special cares must also be taken while handling tricot, not only while making garments, but also while using them. They can be machine washed, but only with special care, to avoid them becoming bunched up. Warm water and a gentle cycle is the best way to wash tricot garments in washing machines. Heat will result in harm to the fabric, so use the lowest setting on the dryer and do not iron it unless absolutely necessary. If required, use low heat setting, and a keep a towel or some other cloth in between to separate the iron from the tricot.