Since not all cashmere is created equal, understanding cashmere quality is something I am going to focus on in today’s post. With Winter around the corner and the holiday gift giving season, cashmere is available at all price points.
Understanding Cashmere
Due to cashmere coming from the under coat of a goat, it takes more than two goats to produce a two ply sweater. For example, the more ply in your sweater, the more expensive it will be. Additionally, it will be heavier and warmer in weight. In addition, fibers of the warming undercoat must be separated. Furthermore this is a labor intensive process that requires combing and sorting of the hair by hand.
Originally cashmere came from an old spelling – Kashmir. Kashmir is the origin of the trade and production. Not all cashmere is luxurious. Additionally, quality depends on where the wool comes from. Also the finest of cashmere comes from spinning and weaving the yarn. China is the largest supplier to make cashmere yarn. But Europe and Mongolia have the best quality.
Understanding Cashmere Cost
In the same fashion, long, thin and white fibers command the highest price. Moreover, the heavier the sweater is, the more expensive it will be.
If the garment feels loose, it will lose its shape. Look for a tight knit. Furthermore, Chinese white from Inner Mongolia is regarded as one of the finest quality cashmere available. Because it is not subject to color or bleach, it is a softer yarn. A soft cashmere garment will be more expensive.
When shopping for cashmere, your fingers should feel the difference. Also make sure you read the label. Does it say 100% cashmere? When cashmere is mixed with silk or wool, it should be lower in price.
Cashmere Care
You can care for cashmere at home. Wash inside out. Use the delicate cycle. Use Laundress wool and cashmere shampoo. By using the shampoo, it will keep your yarns safe. Only use two teaspoons. Air dry. Also you can dry on the delicate cycle for 5 minutes on extra low. Never hang cashmere.
I always put my cashmere knits in a cedar trunk with tissue paper. Furthermore sachets, blocks or balls will keep moths away. If your garment pills, use a pill comb. However good quality cashmere shouldn’t pill. If a perforation appears, a good Dry Cleaner or Knit Specialist can stitch your garment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I recommend buying good quality cashmere. Although you can find cashmere at all price points, cheap cashmere is simply cheap. To summarize, better cashmere is best. Although the price is higher, the care to animals, land and the planet is better for the environment and won’t be on your conscience.
