Abstract: A patterned fabric includes weft threads 3 and a fabric ground whose warped threads 2 are laid in a first area 4 in chain stitch and in a second area 5 in another stitch form. The second area 5 alternates with the first area 4 both in warp as well as weft direction. This provides, despite patterning by the warp threads, a surface stable fabric. The process for forming the patterned fabric is such that the fabric, after production, has a longitudinal extension of no greater than 25% and additionally is provided with a longitudinally stabilizing, stability improving arrangement step.A warp knitting machine for the production of fabric 1 comprises a weft insert magazine and two jacquard guide bars. In substantially each working cycle a portion of the guides lay chain stitches and the remaining portion of the guides lay other stitch types. Substantially each guide lays sequentially chain stitches as well as other stitch types.