Overview
EN ISO 8388:2003 (ISO 8388:1998) is an international vocabulary standard for knitted fabrics - types. Adopted by CEN as a European standard, it defines the terminology used for industrially produced machine-knitted fabrics. The standard provides self-contained definitions, clarifying illustrations and cross-references to related ISO vocabularies, helping ensure consistent language across manufacturing, specification and trade.
Key topics
- Scope and purpose: precise terms for machine-produced knitted fabrics (weft- and warp-knitted), with definitions intended to be complete and mutually consistent.
- Fabric categories: organized coverage of major knitted fabric types including:
- weft-knitted jersey-based, double-layer jersey, rib-based, and purl-based fabrics
- warp-knitted jersey-based, double layer, rib-based, and purl-based fabrics
- combined warp-and-weft jersey-based fabrics
- Terminology conventions: rules for preferred/admitted terms, obsolete terms and cross-references; method of symbolizing synonyms follows ISO 1951 and ISO 10241.
- Illustrations and symbols: definitions are illustrated to clarify meaning; annexes address symbolic representation (informative) and terms related to warp-knitting machines.
- Normative references: links to related standards (e.g., ISO 4921 for basic knitting concepts, ISO 1951 for lexicographical symbols, ISO 3166 country codes) that support consistent technical vocabulary.
Practical applications
EN ISO 8388 is especially useful for:
- Textile and knitwear manufacturers - consistent internal and supplier communication about fabric types.
- Product designers and technical designers - specifying accurate fabric types (jersey, rib, purl, double-layer) in technical packages.
- Quality control and testing labs - ensuring test reports and specifications use standardized terms.
- Procurement and sourcing - unambiguous fabric descriptions in contracts and purchase orders.
- Standards committees, translators and technical writers - harmonizing terminology across languages and documentation.
- Education and research - teaching standardized knit fabric classification and nomenclature.
Related standards
- ISO 4921 - Knitting: basic concepts and vocabulary (cross-referenced)
- ISO 1951 - Lexicographical symbols and typographical conventions
- ISO 3166 - Country codes (used for language/country labeling)
- ISO 10241 - Terminological standard preparation and layout
- Regional standards referenced (e.g., BS 5441, DIN 62050-2)
EN ISO 8388:2003 is a foundational reference for anyone who needs precise, internationally harmonized vocabulary for knitted fabric types - improving clarity in specifications, compliance, and global trade.
