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 comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about this exceptional fabric, from its properties and uses to care instructions and where to find it.
What is Mohair Fabric?
Mohair is a natural protein fiber known for its exceptional strength, resilience, and luxurious feel. Its long, smooth fibers create a fabric with a distinctive halo, resulting in its characteristic soft luster. Unlike wool, mohair is less prone to felting and retains its shape exceptionally well, making it ideal for a variety of applications. The fiber's inherent crimp also contributes to its warmth-retaining properties, making it a popular choice for winter garments.
What are the Different Types of Mohair Fabric?
The type of mohair fabric you choose will depend on your project and desired outcome. Several variations exist, each with unique characteristics:
- Plain Mohair: This is the most common type, offering a simple, luxurious texture. Its versatility makes it suitable for various projects.
- Kid Mohair: Derived from the first shearing of young Angora goats, kid mohair is exceptionally soft and fine, resulting in a delicate and luxurious fabric.
- Mohair blends: Mohair is often blended with other fibers like silk, wool, or cotton to enhance its properties or create unique textures. These blends often offer improved drape, durability, and affordability.
What are the Advantages of Using Mohair Fabric?
Choosing mohair fabric offers several key advantages:
- Exceptional softness and warmth: Mohair's fine fibers create a luxuriously soft and warm fabric, perfect for cozy garments and home textiles.
- Excellent drape and luster: Its inherent sheen and smooth fibers result in a fabric with a beautiful drape, lending itself well to flowing garments and elegant designs.
- Durability and resilience: Mohair is remarkably durable and resistant to pilling, making it a long-lasting choice for your projects.
- Hypoallergenic properties: For individuals with wool sensitivities, mohair can be a more comfortable and hypoallergenic alternative.
Where Can I Buy Mohair Fabric by the Yard?
Finding mohair fabric by the yard is easier than you might think. Many online retailers specialize in high-quality fabrics, offering a wide selection of colors, weights, and blends. Local fabric stores may also carry mohair, though the selection might be more limited. Always check reviews and compare prices before making your purchase.
What is the difference between kid mohair and adult mohair?
Kid mohair comes from the first shearing of young goats, resulting in a finer, softer, and more luxurious fiber than adult mohair. Adult mohair is still a high-quality fiber, but it's slightly coarser and less soft. The price difference reflects this difference in quality and softness.
How do I care for mohair fabric?
Mohair fabric generally requires careful handling. Hand washing or a gentle machine wash in cold water with a mild detergent is recommended. Always lay flat to dry to prevent stretching or damage. Avoid harsh chemicals and high heat.
What types of projects is mohair fabric best suited for?
Mohair's versatility makes it ideal for a wide range of projects, including:
- Knitting and crocheting: The soft, luxurious texture makes it perfect for sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
- Sewing: It's a great choice for coats, jackets, dresses, and other garments requiring a luxurious and warm fabric.
- Upholstery: Mohair's durability and beautiful drape make it suitable for upholstery projects, adding a touch of elegance to furniture.
Is mohair fabric expensive?
Yes, mohair fabric tends to be more expensive than other fabrics due to the limited supply of mohair fiber and the labor-intensive process of producing the fabric. However, its exceptional quality, durability, and luxurious feel justify the higher cost for many crafters.
By understanding the properties and applications of mohair fabric, you can confidently select the perfect yardage for your next creative endeavor. Embrace the luxury and versatility of mohair and transform your projects into stunning works of art.
