Cashmere fibres are from the winter undercoat of goats. The goat only produces this undercoat as a response to the day growing shorter with the approaching winter. This undercoat protects the animal against the frigid winter climate. When spring rolls around and the days begin to lengthen, this undercoat is no longer needed, so the goat begins to molt. These molting fibres are collected and spun into fabulously soft threads and yarns.
For those who like to make sure they are using animal friendly yarns, you should know that the fibres are gently combed out in a harmless, cruelty-free way. Since the fibres are from the undercoat, the animals are never sheared.
Many types of goats actually produce this fibre, but only the finest of these get the distinction of being called cashmere goats. It is from these goats that the super soft downy fibres are harvested to be spun into true cashmere threads and yarns.
Cashmere fibres produce a light, yet strong and durable thread or yarn. In comparison to wool, the cashmere fibre is much thinner and not as coarse. This is why cashmere garments give incredible warmth even though they are so light weight. This is also why the tension for a ply in cashmere will knit smaller than a similar ply in pure wool.
There are several regions of the world where cashmere is produced, but I personally find the cashmere from Mongolia, Inner Mongolia and China to be the softest and most durable...which is why it is my favorite yarn to use!
This region of the world is marked by gorgeous landscapes. There are far reaching grasslands, stunning plateaus, majestic mountains and impressive deserts. This region has a very harsh climate in winter with the temperature dropping to an average of -20 to -40 degrees Celsius (-4 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are long lasting with blizzards occurring frequently whereas summers are short and comfortably warm. This is why the cashmere goat is so well adapted with its soft, downy undercoat!
Comments
Post has no comments.