Cashmere

Definition and Overview

Cashmere is an animal fiber made from wool collected from cashmere goats. Its main raw material is the soft undercoat, and when spun into thread or made into textile, it is a material that is easy to achieve a smooth hand feel and a light wearing comfort.

It is used on its own, and is also blended with wool, silk, cotton, chemical fibers, and others. Depending on the blend ratio, thread thickness, knitting or weaving method, and finishing process, the thickness, surface texture, durability, and price range vary greatly.

Characteristics

Cashmere has fine fibers and is soft and easy to loft, so it tends to feel gentle against the skin and may have an elegant sheen. It traps air easily, and is characterized by the ability to achieve warmth even with a relatively light finish.

On the other hand, friction may cause fuzzing and pilling. It can also shrink or felt due to moisture, heat, or rubbing, so care is needed to avoid strong daily friction and excessive washing.

• It is easy to create a soft, supple texture.
• It is a material that makes it easy to balance lightness and warmth.
• Fuzzing and pilling may occur.
• In blends, other fibers may be used to supplement strength and ease of handling.

Main Applications

Cashmere is widely used for knit products such as sweaters, cardigans, and knit dresses. It is also suitable for fashion accessories for fall and winter, such as scarves, stoles, gloves, and hats.

In woven fabrics, it is used for coats, jackets, suiting fabric, trouser fabric, and more. In blends with wool and with a fuzzy finish, it is used as an outer fabric for fall and winter that makes use of its warm appearance.

Selection and Handling Notes

When selecting textile or thread, check not only the cashmere blend ratio, but also the blending partner, industry weight, structure, and the fuzzy feel of the surface. For garments, it is important to assume the strength and dimensional stability required for the application, as well as how it feels against the skin, and to check the texture and behavior after sewing with samples.

When sewing, avoid pressing the fuzzy surface too hard, and test the iron temperature and steam amount with a pressing cloth. Follow the care label on the product and handle it with reduced friction. After washing, shaping it and drying it flat helps reduce stretching and loss of shape.

Differences from Similar Terms

Wool generally refers to sheep wool, whereas cashmere is wool from cashmere goats. Both are animal fibers, but the source animals are different, and cashmere is especially valued for its fine and soft texture.

Mohair is wool from the Angora goat and is a different fiber from cashmere. Mohair often makes use of its luster, resilience, and long pile appearance, and differs from cashmere in appearance, touch, and product design goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cashmere be washed at home?

Whether it can be washed depends on the blend ratio, knit or woven fabric, finishing, and accessories. Be sure to check the product care label. Even if water washing is indicated as possible, shrinkage or felting may occur due to friction or temperature changes, so it is important to handle it gently and for a short time.

What should I do if pilling occurs on cashmere?

Pilling tends to occur from friction during wear, and it is difficult to prevent completely. Do not pull it out forcibly; instead, smooth the surface with a garment brush, or remove it little by little with a pill remover or small scissors so as not to damage the textile. Avoid wearing the same area repeatedly as well.

What should be checked in a cashmere and wool blended textile?

A cashmere blend textile combines the softness of cashmere with the properties of wool. Do not judge it by the blend ratio alone; check the industry weight, structure, degree of fuzzing, how pilling appears, and dimensional changes after washing or steaming, and determine the durability and texture required for the application.