3D KNITTED STRUCTURE AND A METHOD OF PROVIDING A 3D KNITTED STRUCTURE

Aspects of the present invention relate to a method () of fabricating a cover for an interior trim component or an exterior trim component for a vehicle. The method comprising forming a 3D knitted structure () by knitting together at least one heat activated yarn and at least one non-heat activated yarn. The structure may be arranged whereby, during a subsequent heat treatment process () in which the cover is heated to a temperature at or above an activation temperature, the heat-activated yarn is activated thereby to form an automotive cover having a knitted structure of increased stiffness once cooled.