About My Fabric Cashmere.
Cashmere is a luxurious and prized natural fibre known for its exceptional softness, warmth, and plush texture. It is sourced from the undercoat of cashmere goats, specifically the Kashmir goat, which is primarily found in regions such as Mongolia, China, Afghanistan, and Iran. Here is an overview of how cashmere is produced and made into fabric:
1. Harvesting Cashmere Fibres:
- Cashmere fibres is harvested during the spring moulting season when the goats naturally shed their winter undercoat.
- The fine cashmere fibres are combed or sheared from the goats' underbelly and neck areas, where the softest and finest fibres are found.
- Each goat produces a relatively small amount of cashmere fibre, making it a precious and valuable material.
2. Sorting and Cleaning:
- After harvesting, the raw cashmere fibres are sorted based on colour length, and quality to ensure uniformity in the final fabric.
- The fibres are then cleaned to remove impurities such as dirt, oils, and vegetable matter through processes like washing and dehairing.
3. Spinning and Yarn Production:
- The cleaned cashmere fibres are carded and combed to align the fibres and remove any remaining impurities.
- The fibres are spun into yarn using traditional spinning methods or modern machinery, resulting in a soft, fine yarn known for its warmth and insulating properties.
4. Weaving and Fabric Production:
- The cashmere yarn is woven into fabric using various weaving techniques to create different textures and patterns.
- Cashmere fabric can be produced in a range of weights and styles, from lightweight and airy to thicker and more dense fabrics.
- The finished cashmere fabric is then subjected to finishing processes such as washing, steaming, and pressing to enhance its softness, drape, and overall quality.
5. Garment and Textile Production:
- Cashmere fabric is used to create a wide range of luxury garments and textiles, including sweaters, scarves, shawls, blankets, and outerwear.
- The softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties of cashmere make it a popular choice for high-end clothing and accessories.
Overall, the production of cashmere fabric involves a meticulous process of harvesting, sorting, cleaning, spinning, weaving, and finishing to transform the delicate cashmere fibres into luxurious, soft, and exquisite fabrics that are prized for their quality and comfort. From the rugged landscapes where the cashmere goats graze to the skilled craftsmanship involved in fabric production, cashmere embodies a blend of nature's bounty and human artistry that results in timeless and indulgent textiles cherished by discerning consumers worldwide.
Cashmere fabric has a rich and storied history that dates back centuries, characterized by luxury, exclusivity, and fine craftsmanship. Here is an overview of the history of cashmere fabric:
1. Origins in the Himalayas:
- Cashmere fabric takes its name from the Kashmir region in India, where the luxurious fibre was first woven into exquisite textiles.
- The fine undercoat of cashmere goats, known for its exceptional softness and warmth, was traditionally sourced from regions in the Himalayas, including Kashmir, Mongolia, China, and Iran.
2. Royal Favour and Elite Trade:
- Cashmere fabric gained popularity and royal favour in the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a symbol of luxury and prestige among European nobility.
- The softness, insulating properties, and rarity of cashmere made it a coveted textile, leading to its exclusive use in royal garments, shawls, and accessories.
3. Development of Cashmere Industry:
- The cashmere industry expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries, with advancements in breeding, processing, and weaving techniques enhancing the production and quality of cashmere fabric.
- Countries such as Scotland, Italy, and Nepal became renowned for their expertise in spinning, weaving, and finishing cashmere textiles, creating a global market for luxurious cashmere products.
4. Modern Luxury and Global Appeal:
- In the modern era, cashmere fabric continues to be synonymous with luxury, elegance, and fine craftsmanship, attracting discerning consumers worldwide.
- Cashmere garments, scarves, blankets, and accessories are sought after for their softness, warmth, and timeless appeal, making them a staple in high-end fashion and luxury markets.
5. Sustainable Practices and Ethical Sourcing:
- With growing awareness of sustainability and ethical sourcing in the textile industry, efforts have been made to promote responsible and environmentally friendly practices in cashmere production.
- Initiatives such as sustainable grazing techniques, ethical treatment of cashmere goats, and fair trade practices aim to preserve the natural beauty of cashmere fibre and support the livelihoods of communities involved in its production.
Kashmir Goat Art By Mary-Jane G. Moffett