Types of Cashmere Blend Yarns

I have already talked about the features of cashmere wool yarn. Now I want to talk about cashmere blends. Let me say right away that blended yarns are not just an attempt to make a product cheaper, but also an opportunity to improve its characteristics.

Cashmere and Silk Blend

Perfect for knitting light shawls, scarves, and blouses. The finished items are simply luxurious. However, unfortunately, they wrinkle easily and lose their appearance. For this same reason, such yarn is not suitable for knitting dresses and skirts.

Cashmere and Angora Blend

This combination creates a thin and delicate fabric. This yarn makes wonderful women's sweaters and jumpers. It is also ideal for knitting children's items (provided the child is not allergic to wool). However, this rather delicate yarn is unlikely to be suitable for men's items, as it requires very careful wear.

Cashmere with Alpaca, Merino, or Camel Fiber

This specific type of blended yarn is suitable for making men's items. It is firmer and more wear-resistant.

Blends with Synthetic Fibers

Additions of acrylic, nylon, or microfiber fibers significantly reduce yarn wear and allow for a wider color range. The yarn becomes easier to care for, is almost pill-resistant, and retains its shape longer.

Cotton and Cashmere Yarn

As a rule, the percentage of cashmere in such blended yarn is very small, which determines its properties as being close to those of cotton thread. Consequently, items made from such yarn are not very warm or durable.

In general, the choice of yarn is determined by the pattern, your preferences, and your budget. However, if the stated composition contains less than 50% cashmere, you shouldn't consider this yarn to be cashmere. At such percentages, the properties will not be noticeable. We will talk about how to correctly calculate yarn consumption when using cashmere yarn later.

For care and shrinkage checks with delicate yarns, see the guide on washing mink down and angora garments.