Have you ever felt a cashmere sweater and marveled at how incredibly soft it is? Cashmere fabric is made from the super-fine undercoat of cashmere goats and is one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world.
In this article, we’ll break down what cashmere fabric is, how it’s made, and why it costs so much. You’ll learn about the unique properties that set cashmere apart from other types of wool. We’ll also explore the production process from the goat farms where the fiber originates to the factories where it is spun into yarn. And finally, we’ll look at the factors that drive the cost of cashmere up.
What Is Cashmere Fabric?
Cashmere is a luxuriously soft wool fiber made from cashmere goats. The goats produce a double fleece that consists of a coarse outer layer and a downy underlayer. This ultra-fine underlayer is made up of cashmere fibers. Cashmere fibers are three times finer than human hair. The fibers have a natural crimp that allows them to trap body heat efficiently. As a result, cashmere garments are wonderfully insulating while still feeling lightweight. Cashmere is also durable and resistant to pilling. Over time, it gains a patina and becomes even softer with use.
To produce the fabric, the fibers are first sorted, combed, and spun into yarn. The yarn is then woven into cashmere fabric that’s soft, warm and lightweight. Compared to sheep’s wool, cashmere fibers are softer, finer and rarer.
True 100% cashmere fabric is expensive since the fibers are limited and it’s labor-intensive to produce. Many brands blend cashmere with sheep’s wool or synthetics to reduce cost. While blended fabrics are more affordable, pure cashmere reigns supreme in terms of softness and insulation.
If you’re looking to invest in high-quality cashmere clothing or blankets, check the fiber content to ensure it’s 100% cashmere. With proper care, pure cashmere fabric can last a lifetime and become softer with each use. For such a luxurious and durable fiber, the extra cost is well worth it.
History and Origin of Cashmere Fabric
Cashmere fabric has been around for centuries, dating back to the 1400s in Kashmir, India. The word “cashmere” is derived from the Kashmir Province in the Himalayas, where the fibre was first produced and used. The fine, soft undercoat of cashmere goats produces the luxurious, lightweight fiber used to make the fabric.
For years, cashmere was a fiber only accessible to royalty and the very wealthy. By the 1800s, European textile manufacturers started producing cashmere fabric and clothing, making it available to more people but still at a high price.
Today, China is the largest producer of cashmere fiber and fabric. Improvements in textile production have made cashmere more affordable, though it remains a premium natural fiber.
While cashmere production has expanded, the fiber remains rare and limited. Each cashmere goat only produces about 4 ounces of fiber per year. It takes the wool of 3 goats to produce enough fiber for a single sweater. This scarcity also contributes to the high cost of the fabric. For luxury and softness, though, cashmere is incomparable.
Properties and Characteristics of Cashmere
Cashmere is coveted for its ultra-soft feel and ability to provide exceptional warmth for its lightweight. Here are seven key properties that make cashmere so prized:
Fine, Soft Fibers
Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. These fibers are very fine, measuring only 14-19 microns in diameter. For comparison, human hair is 60-100 microns. These fine fibers are what give cashmere its signature softness.
Lightweight yet Warm
Despite its fine fibers, cashmere provides excellent insulation. Its lofty fibers trap body heat and keep it close to the skin. An ounce of cashmere provides more warmth than an ounce of sheep’s wool. This means you can have a lighter garment that keeps you just as warm.
Rare and Luxurious
Cashmere goats produce only about 4 ounces of cashmere per year, and it takes the wool from 3 goats to produce a single cashmere sweater. This makes the fabric quite rare and expensive. The luxury and scarcity of cashmere contributes to its appeal.
Durable and Long-Lasting
While the fibers are fine, cashmere is a durable fabric. When properly cared for, a high-quality cashmere garment can last 10 years or more. The natural crimp in the fibers gives cashmere good shape retention.
Hypoallergenic
Cashmere is a natural fiber that is hypoallergenic and irritant free. It does not provoke an allergic reaction and is suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies to other fabrics like wool.
Breathable
Despite its warmth, cashmere is a breathable fabric. It absorbs moisture and allows it to pass through, keeping you comfortable in a range of temperatures. It adapts well to different levels of activity and insulation needs.
Versatile
Cashmere is a versatile fiber used to make a variety of garments and accessories like sweaters, dresses, pants, gloves, scarves, blankets, and more. Its softness, warmth, and breathability make it suitable for a wide range of items.
What are the Different Types of Cashmere Fabric
These are the main types of cashmere fabric:
Grade A Cashmere
The highest quality and most expensive cashmere comes from Grade A. This ultra-fine undercoat hair is the softest and most luxurious. Garments made from Grade A cashmere can last a lifetime with proper care.
Grade B Cashmere
Grade B cashmere is a bit coarser but still wonderfully soft. It comes from the area where the fine undercoat and coarser outer coat start to blend together. Garments made from Grade B cashmere are more affordable but can still feel luxurious against your skin.
Grade C Cashmere
The most affordable cashmere comes from Grade C. This comes from the coarser outer coat hair and may feel slightly scratchy. While not as soft as higher grades, Grade C cashmere is still highly insulating and durable. Garments made from this grade are very budget-friendly but provide good value.
Pashmina Cashmere
Pashmina cashmere comes from Changthangi or Pashmina goats found in the Himalayas. This type of cashmere is extremely fine, soft and lightweight. Garments made from Pashmina cashmere are ideal for spring and summer. However, the fibers are more delicate so the fabric may pill more easily. Pashmina cashmere is generally the most expensive type.
Mongolian Cashmere
Mongolian cashmere comes from goats in the harsh climate of Outer and Inner Mongolia in China and Mongolia. This cashmere is generally thicker, more durable and more affordable than Pashmina cashmere. The goats have a double fleece to protect them from the extreme cold, resulting in fibers that are well-suited for fall and winter garments.
Chinese Cashmere
China is the largest cashmere producer globally, accounting for approximately 75% of the world’s supply. Chinese cashmere comes in a range of qualities from low-grade to high-grade that is comparable to Mongolian or Pashmina cashmere. Lower quality cashmere may feel rough and pill more easily. Higher quality Chinese cashmere can be an affordable alternative to other types of cashmere. Many popular cashmere brands source their cashmere from China.
The type of cashmere depends entirely on which part of the goat’s coat it comes from. In general, the finer and softer the hair, the higher the grade and price. But any cashmere, even at its lowest grade, provides incomparable softness, insulation, and durability.
How Cashmere Fabric Is Made
To produce cashmere fabric, the soft undercoat of cashmere goats is first collected during molting season when the goats naturally shed their winter coat.
Obtaining the Raw Materials
Cashmere comes from cashmere goats, specifically the soft undercoat of hair that helps keep them warm in the winter. Once the goats shed this winter coat in the spring, the loose hairs are collected through a process called combing or shearing. The finest, softest hair comes from the neck and belly area. These hairs are then sorted and separated to select only the highest quality fibers.
Cleaning and Sorting
The raw cashmere fibers still contain grease, dirt and debris, so they must be thoroughly cleaned. They are washed, rinsed, and dried. Then workers manually sort through the fibers to separate them by color and coarseness. The softest, whitest fibers are the most prized.
Carding and Combing
The cleaned and sorted fibers are carded or combed to untangle them and arrange them in the same direction. Carding uses metal teeth to brush the fibers, while combing uses a finer tool. This results in straight, aligned fibers and is an important step in preparing the cashmere for spinning.
Spinning
The carded cashmere fibers are spun, or twisted, together to form yarn. This can be done on a traditional spinning wheel or using modern machinery. The end result is a soft, luxurious yarn that is then dyed different colors or bleached white. The yarn is wound onto cones or balls.
Weaving and Knitting
The cashmere yarn is then woven or knitted into fabrics and garments. Weaving produces woven fabrics like challis or twill. Knitting results in knitted fabrics used in sweaters, scarves, gloves and more. The finest, softest yarns are usually knitted, while coarser yarns can be woven or knitted. The finished cashmere fabrics and clothing are prized for their softness, warmth, and luxurious feel.
Where is Cashmere Fabric Produced?
Cashmere goats produce the soft undercoat of hair that is used to make cashmere fabric. The majority of the world’s cashmere comes from goats in China and Mongolia. The finest, softest cashmere comes from Northern India, Tibet, and Nepal. The undercoat of cashmere goats has a crimped structure that provides insulation without much weight.
These goats are well suited to the harsh, cold climate in the Himalayan region. During spring, the goats naturally shed this soft underlayer of hair. The hair is then harvested by combing the goats. The collected hair is processed, cleaned, sorted by color and length, and spun into yarn. This yarn is then woven into the luxurious cashmere fabric used to make clothing, blankets, and other textiles. The limited supply and intensive production process contribute to the high cost of pure cashmere.
The Price of Cashmere Fabric in Nigeria
Cashmere fabric is considered a luxury fiber, and therefore quite expensive. In Nigeria, high quality cashmere fabric typically ranges from ₦15,000 to ₦30,000 per yard. The price depends on several factors, including the grade of cashmere, the thickness or weight of the fabric, and additional treatments.
Grade of Cashmere
The grade refers to the fineness and softness of the cashmere fibers. Grade A cashmere, made of the finest fibers from a cashmere goat’s underbelly, is the most prized and costs the most. Lower grade B or C cashmere may use coarser fibers from the goat’s back or neck, so it tends to be more affordable. For high-end garments, Grade A cashmere is typically used.
Weight of the Fabric
The weight or thickness of the cashmere fabric also impacts the price. Lightweight cashmere, around 150-220 gsm (grams per square meter) is well-suited for warmer weather and tends to cost less. Heavier weights, 230 gsm and up, provide more insulation for cold weather but are more expensive to produce. Most high-quality cashmere garments use mid-weight fabrics in the 200 to 300 gsm range.
Treatments
Some cashmere fabrics receive special treatments to improve softness, reduce pilling, or provide stain resistance. These treatments, such as chemical softening or applying a durable water repellent finish, require additional production steps and chemicals, so the final fabric costs more. Untreated 100% pure cashmere without chemical finishes may be slightly less expensive.
In summary, for high-quality cashmere fabric in Nigeria, you can expect to pay ₦15,000 to ₦30,000 per yard. The specific price will depend on the grade of cashmere, thickness of the fabric, and any special treatments, but for the ultimate in luxury and comfort, premium Grade A cashmere in the mid-weight range is worth the investment.
How is Cashmere Better than Other Wool?
Cashmere is considered a luxury fiber for several reasons:
It’s extremely soft and fine
The fibers are very fine, measuring only 19 microns or less in diameter compared to 75 microns for human hair. This makes garments feel buttery soft against the skin.
It’s highly insulating
Cashmere fibers trap body heat efficiently while still feeling light. Garments made of cashmere keep you warm without feeling heavy.
It’s durable and long-lasting
High quality cashmere can last 10-15 years with proper care. The fibers are resistant to pilling and hold their shape well.
It’s breathable
While cashmere insulates well, it also allows moisture to pass through. This means cashmere garments feel comfortable in a range of temperatures and environments.
It’s lightweight
Despite its excellent insulation, cashmere fibers are hollow and lightweight. Cashmere sweaters and accessories feel cozy without being bulky.
It resists odors
Cashmere is naturally resistant to odors and stains. It rarely needs to be washed and can be freshened up by airing out or spot-cleaning.
It’s flexible and wrinkle-resistant
Cashmere fibers easily bend and shape to your body but retain their form. Garments made of cashmere hold their shape without wrinkling.
How is Cashmere Fabric better than other Fabric?
Cashmere fabric has some superior properties compared to other fabrics.
It’s extremely soft and lightweight
Cashmere comes from cashmere goats and is one of the softest fibers in the world. It’s very fine and delicate, making garments light and cozy.
It’s great at regulating temperature
Cashmere has excellent insulation for its lightweight. It helps keep you warm in the cold but also breathable in warmer weather.
It’s durable and long-lasting
High quality cashmere garments can last a lifetime with proper care. The fibers are very resilient and resistant to pilling.
It’s comfortable and flexible
Cashmere is a natural fiber that adapts well to the body. It allows for freedom of movement and stretches comfortably.
It resists odors
Cashmere is naturally resistant to the buildup of odors and bacteria. It requires less frequent washing and holds its shape well.
It’s ideal for sensitive skin
The ultra-fine fibers of cashmere are very gentle on the skin. It’s a great option for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions.
It’s a sustainable and eco-friendly choice
Cashmere is a natural, biodegradable fiber. It’s a more sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics derived from petroleum.
It brings luxury and style
Cashmere is associated with luxury, comfort and high quality. Cashmere garments are a wardrobe staple that conveys refined style and sophistication.
How to Spot Quality Cashmere The Difference Between Good and Bad Cashmere Wool
The quality of cashmere wool is very important to consider when buying cashmere clothing or fabrics. High-quality cashmere will feel extremely soft and luxurious, while lower quality cashmere can feel scratchy and coarse. Here are some ways to spot the difference between good and bad cashmere:
- Check the fiber diameter. High-quality cashmere fibers are very fine, around 19 microns or less in diameter. Lower quality cashmere will have thicker, coarser fibers.
- Examine the length. Longer cashmere fibers, around 3 inches, indicate higher quality. Shorter fibers are more prone to pilling and shedding.
- See how much it sheds. High-quality cashmere sheds very little. Lower quality cashmere will shed and pill more due to shorter, weaker fibers.
- Test the softness. Quality cashmere should feel extremely soft and smooth. Lesser quality cashmere will feel rough and scratchy against your skin.
- Check the country of origin. Cashmere from Inner Mongolia and China is typically the finest, softer and more expensive. Cashmere from Iran, Afghanistan and Nepal is usually lower quality.
- Inspect the dye quality. Rich, vibrant colors that look natural indicate higher quality cashmere. Uneven, dull or faded dyeing signifies lower quality.
- Check the price. High-quality, pure cashmere wool is expensive to produce, so the price can be a good indicator of quality. If it seems too good to be true, the cashmere is probably lower quality.
How Best to Maintain and Store Cashmere Clothing
To keep your cashmere clothing looking and feeling its best for years to come, proper care and storage is key.
Store cashmere folded, not hung. Hanging can cause the fibers to stretch out of shape. Keep cashmere in a cool, dry place away from moths and carpet beetles. These insects love to feed on cashmere.
Hand wash or dry clean cashmere. Machine washing and drying can damage the delicate fibers. If hand washing, use a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Gently swish the item around and drain the water. Do not wring or twist. Lay the item flat to air dry away from direct heat.
Avoid bleaching cashmere. Bleach will weaken and damage the fibers. Do not iron cashmere unless absolutely necessary. If needed, use a low setting and place a towel between the iron and the cashmere.
Brush cashmere after each wearing to remove surface dirt and refresh the nap. Use a specialized cashmere comb or soft bristled brush. Brushing also helps the item keep its shape.
Repair any holes, snags or tears immediately. Cashmere can unravel quickly if damage is left unattended. Seek professional mending for the best results.
Rotate the items in your cashmere wardrobe so each piece gets a chance to rest between wearings. This will help them last longer.
Re-treat cashmere periodically with a specialized cashmere treatment spray or balm to boost water resistance and protection from stains. Follow the directions on the product for best results.
With regular care and maintenance, your cashmere pieces will give you many cozy seasons of wear. Take good care of this luxury fiber and it will take good care of you!
How Does Cashmere Fabric Impact the Environment?
Cashmere production impacts the environment in several ways. To make one cashmere sweater, the soft undercoat of cashmere goats must be collected. This requires the goat population to be quite large, which means more grazing land is needed. The goats eat grass and other plants, and as their numbers increase, they can overgraze the land. This may lead to soil erosion and desertification.
The cashmere is also processed using harsh chemicals like sodium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide to clean and soften the fibers. These chemicals require water and energy to produce and can pollute the air and water. Some cashmere producers are working to develop more sustainable production methods with lower environmental impact, but there is still much work to be done. Overall, while cashmere is a luxurious and high-quality fabric, its production does take a toll on the planet. By being mindful consumers and supporting eco-friendly brands, we can all help make the cashmere industry greener.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cashmere is known for being an extremely soft, luxurious fiber, but also quite pricey. Here are some common questions about cashmere fabric:
What exactly is cashmere?
Cashmere comes from cashmere goats and is one of the softest, most luxurious fibers in the world. The fine undercoat hair of cashmere goats is combed out during molting seasons and spun into the coveted cashmere yarn.
Is cashmere wool or cotton?
Cashmere is made from cashmere wool, which comes from cashmere goats. The wool is combed or sheared from the soft undercoat of the goats.
What fabric is better than cashmere?
While cashmere is considered a luxury fiber, some fabrics can be better for certain uses. Silk, for example, is more breathable and better for warm weather. Cotton is more affordable, durable, and better for casual everyday wear. Synthetic fabrics like polyester fleece can also be warmer and more budget-friendly than cashmere.
What are the disadvantages of cashmere?
Cashmere is expensive due to the limited supply of cashmere goats and the labor-intensive process of making the wool into fabric. It also requires delicate care since it’s a natural fiber, hand washing or dry cleaning, no bleaching, and lay flat to dry. Cashmere can pill over time and with extended wear, though higher quality cashmere is less prone to pilling. It is also not as durable as some synthetic fabrics.
What color is natural cashmere?
Natural cashmere fiber has a variety of natural color tones, from off-white to light brown. The natural color depends on the color of the cashmere goat. While natural colored cashmere is available, most cashmere garments and fabrics are dyed different colors during processing. Popular cashmere colors include greys, navies, blacks, and jewel tones, though cashmere can be dyed any color.
Does perfume ruin cashmere?
It depends on the perfume and how much you apply. In general, most high-quality cashmere garments can withstand normal use of perfume and body sprays without damage. However, applying too much perfume, especially those with high alcohol content, can potentially damage cashmere over time. The alcohol can dry out and weaken cashmere fibers. To be safe, apply perfume before getting dressed and avoid spraying it directly onto your cashmere clothing.
What happens if cashmere gets wet?
Cashmere is very absorbent and can be felt when wet, causing it to shrink, pill, and become misshapen. To avoid damage when cashmere gets wet:
- Gently blot to absorb excess moisture. Do not twist or wring.
- Air dry away from direct heat. Lay the item flat on a towel to air dry.
- For sweaters, gently reshape and smooth into the correct measurements as it dries.
- Avoid machine drying which can severely damage cashmere.
Is there fake cashmere?
Yes, there are many cheap imitations of cashmere made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers. To ensure you’re getting high-quality authentic cashmere, check the fiber content. It should be 100% cashmere.
How do I care for cashmere?
Cashmere should be carefully hand washed or dry cleaned. Avoid machine washing which can damage the delicate fibers. Wash cashmere clothing separately the first time, and avoid fabric softener which can deteriorate the fibers. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay the item flat to air dry away from direct heat. For storage, fold cashmere and place in breathable garment bags. With proper care, high-quality cashmere clothing can last many years.
Why choose cashmere?
Cashmere is prized for its luxuriously soft texture, excellent insulation, and durability. Despite its delicate feel, high-quality cashmere fabric is 3 times more insulating than sheep’s wool. The soft, fine fibers trap body heat without bulk, making cashmere ideal for travel and layering. When cared for properly, cashmere rewards its owner with a lifetime of comfort and style. For the ultimate in softness and warmth, cashmere is hard to beat.
How can you tell if clothes are cashmere?
Cashmere feels extremely soft and lightweight. Hold the fabric up to your face, it should feel delicate and almost like a soft cloud. Cashmere will also keep you warm without feeling heavy. Look for the word “cashmere” on the label to verify.
How long does cashmere last?
With proper care, high-quality cashmere garments can last 10 years or more. Cashmere is a durable fiber, but it requires hand washing or dry cleaning, and air drying away from heat sources. Stains should be spot-cleaned immediately. Moths can damage cashmere, so store in a cedar closet or drawer with cedar blocks.
How does cashmere smell?
Cashmere has a naturally fresh, clean scent due to the oils and fatty acids in the cashmere wool fibers. The scent is usually very subtle, especially compared to sheep’s wool. Some people describe it as slightly nutty. The scent will fade over time with washing and wearing.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the lowdown on cashmere fabric. From its origins as the fine, soft undercoat of cashmere goats to how it’s harvested, processed, and spun into yarn, cashmere has come a long way while retaining its reputation for exceptional warmth and softness. Just remember that with quality cashmere comes a higher price tag, so be prepared to splurge if you want the good stuff. But once you feel that buttery soft cashmere against your skin, you’ll know it was worth every penny. Hopefully now you have a better understanding of what makes cashmere so special.