Snarl

Definition and Overview

Snarl is the phenomenon in which the residual twist in yarn causes the yarn to twist naturally and form loops or knot-like tangles. It is more likely to occur in single yarn with a strong twist, and appears at loose ends of the yarn or during feeding.

Appearance and Effect on Fabric

Yarn with snarl may appear locally thicker, or be observed as loop-like swelling or tangles. Unless it is used as a design feature, it becomes a cause of appearance defects and yarn breakage in fabrics that require a uniform surface texture.

If snarl occurs during weaving or knitting, tension can become unstable and may cause yarn feeding problems. As a result, it may lead to weaving bars, irregular stitches, or yarn tangling.

Applications and Design Appeal

In general apparel fabrics, snarl is a quality control item. On the other hand, in fancy yarns that give the surface an irregular raised texture or a handmade look, snarl-like loops and tangles may be used intentionally.

Even when used as a design feature, if the loop size or occurrence level is inconsistent, it can affect snagging during knitting or sewing, as well as uneven product appearance. Depending on the application, sample trials are used to confirm the look and process suitability.

Selection and Handling Precautions

When selecting yarn, check the twist strength, whether it is single yarn or plied yarn, and whether twist setting has been applied. If the yarn twists strongly or forms loops when the end is unraveled, it is important to evaluate in advance how it will affect weaving or knitting conditions.

In sewing, what matters is less the snarl itself than avoiding damage to loops or uneven thickness that appear on the fabric surface. Inspect the fabric before cutting and sewing, avoid pulling on areas that are likely to snag, and set inspection criteria as needed.

Snarl does not directly refer to shrinkage caused by washing. However, fabrics made with highly twisted yarn may change in texture or dimensions through washing or wet heat treatment, so a wash test should be performed before productization.

• With highly twisted yarn or single yarn, be careful of snarl caused by twist-back in the yarn.
• Adjust yarn feeding tension and yarn path appropriately to suppress tangling during processing.
• For fancy yarn, confirm the appearance after knitting, sewing, and washing before mass production.

Differences from Similar Terms

Snarl is a phenomenon in which the yarn itself twists back and tangles into loops due to twist-back. Snag refers to damage in which the yarn is pulled out and loops or pulls appear on the surface, and the cause and stage of occurrence are different.

Nep refers to a small lump formed by part of the fiber or yarn. Snarl is distinguished from nep in that it is not a lump of fiber, but loops or tangles formed by a continuous yarn twisting.

Frequently Asked Questions