Mohair, a luxurious fiber derived from the Angora goat, offers unparalleled softness, warmth, and a unique lustrous sheen. Buying mohair fabric by the yard opens up a world of possibilities for crafting exquisite garments and home décor items. This guide delves into everything you need to know about this exceptional fabric, from its characteristics and care to its diverse applications.
What is Mohair Fabric?
Mohair is a natural protein fiber known for its exceptional softness, strength, and resilience. Unlike wool, mohair's long, smooth fibers create a less fuzzy, more lustrous drape. This contributes to its luxurious feel and distinct shimmer. The longer the fiber, the higher the quality and the more expensive the fabric. Its inherent crimp—the natural wave in the fiber—gives mohair its excellent insulating properties, making it perfect for both warm winter coats and lightweight summer garments.
What are the Different Types of Mohair Fabric?
Mohair fabrics come in various weights and blends, each suited for different purposes:
- Plain Mohair: This is the purest form of mohair, offering the most luxurious feel and drape. It's often used for high-end apparel.
- Mohair Blends: Mohair is frequently blended with other fibers like wool, silk, or cotton to create fabrics with unique characteristics. Wool blends enhance warmth, silk adds luster, and cotton improves breathability. The blend ratio affects the final fabric's properties, such as drape, durability, and cost.
- Kid Mohair: This is derived from the first shearing of a young Angora goat, resulting in exceptionally fine and soft fibers. Kid mohair is highly prized for its superior quality and often commands a higher price.
How to Care for Mohair Fabric?
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your mohair fabric. Here are some key tips:
- Dry Cleaning: Mohair is best dry cleaned to prevent shrinkage and damage. Always check the care label before cleaning.
- Hand Washing: In some cases, hand washing may be an option, but it should be done gently in cool water with a mild detergent. Avoid harsh scrubbing or wringing.
- Air Drying: Always air dry mohair fabric flat to avoid stretching or distortion. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the color.
- Professional Cleaning: For valuable or delicate items, consider professional cleaning by a specialist familiar with handling luxury fabrics.
What are the Benefits of Using Mohair Fabric?
Mohair boasts numerous advantages:
- Exceptional Warmth: Its unique fiber structure provides excellent insulation, making it perfect for cold weather garments.
- Lustrous Sheen: Mohair possesses a natural shimmer that adds elegance to any project.
- Durability and Strength: Mohair fibers are surprisingly strong and resilient, resulting in long-lasting garments and home furnishings.
- Breathability: Despite its warmth, mohair is breathable, preventing overheating.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Mohair is naturally hypoallergenic, making it a suitable choice for sensitive individuals.
What Projects are Suitable for Mohair Fabric?
The versatility of mohair makes it ideal for various projects:
- Coats and Jackets: Its warmth and luxurious feel make it perfect for outerwear.
- Sweaters and Cardigans: Mohair knits beautifully, creating soft and comfortable garments.
- Scarves and Shawls: Its drape and sheen lend themselves well to luxurious accessories.
- Home Décor: Mohair can be used to create elegant throws, blankets, and cushions.
How Much Mohair Fabric Do I Need?
The amount of fabric you need depends on your project's size and design. Always add extra fabric to account for pattern matching, shrinkage, and potential errors. It's wise to consult the pattern instructions or create a sample garment before cutting into your main fabric.
Where Can I Buy Mohair Fabric by the Yard?
Mohair fabric can be purchased from various online retailers and specialty fabric stores. Look for reputable suppliers who offer high-quality fabric and detailed information about the fiber content and care instructions.
Is Mohair Fabric Expensive?
Yes, mohair fabric is typically more expensive than other fabrics like cotton or polyester due to the high cost of raising Angora goats and the labor-intensive processing of the fibers. However, its exceptional quality, luxurious feel, and durability justify the price for many crafters.
Is Mohair Fabric Sustainable?
The sustainability of mohair is a complex issue. While the fiber itself is renewable, ethical concerns exist regarding the treatment of Angora goats. Consumers should seek out ethically sourced mohair from farms committed to animal welfare.
This comprehensive guide provides you with the essential information to confidently work with mohair fabric. Remember to always refer to the care instructions on your specific fabric and enjoy the luxurious experience of creating with this exceptional fiber!
