What is Mohair?
Mohair is a luxurious textile fiber produced from the fleece of the Angora goat. It is prized for its natural luster, silky softness, and remarkable lightness. Unlike standard wool, mohair has a characteristic sheen and a luxurious “hand” (feel), making it a staple for high-end knitwear. This fiber is typically blended with other materials—such as wool, silk, or synthetic fibers—to optimize its performance and cost.
Using Mohair in Knitting
Mohair is primarily used in three different ways:
1. Luxury knitwear and lightweight sweaters. Pure or blended mohair creates pieces that are airy, elegant, and incredibly comfortable. Its natural glow makes it ideal for projects where aesthetics are key, such as fitted sweaters, ethereal shawls, and delicate cardigans.
2. Voluminous and textured knits. Because of its fine structure, a small amount of mohair can create significant volume. This allows for open, airy knits and dramatic textural effects (such as lace-weight mohair or the signature “fuzzy” halo).
3. Achieving “professional” results quickly. Even beginner knitters can create impressive pieces with mohair because the fiber’s halo fills the gaps between stitches, making the fabric look fuller and hiding small mistakes.
While the final result is stunning, mohair is often chosen for its look rather than its ease of use. Working with mohair requires a gentle touch, as the fiber can be fragile and the stitches may slide more than traditional wool.
Key Takeaways
- Origin: Produced exclusively by the Angora goat (do not confuse this with Angora fiber, which comes from the Angora rabbit).
- Main Properties: Natural shine, silky softness, exceptional lightness, and moderate thermal insulation.
- Common Use: Almost always blended with other fibers (typically 25% to 70% mohair) rather than used pure.
- Knitting Advantages: Quickly builds volume, creates a luxury aesthetic, and offers an excellent drape.
- Disadvantages: Higher cost, less stability (stitches can be slippery), and delicate maintenance (requires cold water washing).
Related Terms
Angora fiber
The long, silky hair of the Angora rabbit. Often confused with mohair, this is a different fiber that is finer and warmer, but also more fragile and expensive.
cashmere
A fiber from the Cashmere goat, even more luxurious and costly than mohair. It provides more warmth but has less natural luster.
Alpaca fiber
Hair from the alpaca, which is often more eco-friendly and affordable than mohair. It is soft and warm but lacks the characteristic sheen of mohair.
Angora wool
An imprecise term sometimes used to describe Angora rabbit fiber. It is best avoided to prevent confusion with mohair.
Animal fiber
The general category including all fibers derived from animals (wool, mohair, silk, angora, cashmere, etc.), as opposed to synthetic or cellulosic fibers.
FAQ
Is mohair suitable for beginners?
Yes and no. While the visual result is rewarding and easy to achieve, mohair requires patience: the stitches can be slippery, and mistakes are tricky to undo because the fibers cling to each other. It is best to start with mohair on a simple, structured project rather than complex lace.
Can I use 100% pure mohair?
It is possible, but rare and very expensive. Pure mohair is very slippery and fragile. Manufacturers usually blend it (50-75%) with wool, silk, or nylon to improve the structure and durability of the yarn.
How do I wash mohair knitwear?
Hand wash in cold water using a mild soap specifically designed for animal fibers (wool wash). Never use a washing machine. Some knitters prefer to air out their mohair pieces rather than wash them frequently. Avoid wringing the fabric and always dry flat.