Mohair wool fabric is known for its silkiness and lustrous quality. It
resists stretch and sagging (firmness). It is strong and durable. The fabric
is light-weight and do not itch. It keeps the body warm in cold weather and
cool in hot summer temperatures. It has a receptiveness to rich dyes but
natural colored mohair wool fabric is exceptionally beautiful because of the
variations of shades it carries. It is used for both clothing as well as
furnishing.
Mohair wool fabric is obtained from angora goat, originated in Angora
(Turkey), now known as Ankara. The white, long and silky hair of the goat is
known as 'mohair' or 'mukhyar' in Arabic, meaning the 'best of selected
fleece'. The breed is believed to be at least 3,000 years old. During the
time of Moses, between 1571 and 1451 B.C., mohair fabric was in use. In the
world production of mohair, The Union of South Africa is leading followed by
United States and Turkey.
The angora goat is sheared after every six months yielding staple lengths
from 4-6 inches. The mohair obtained is of two basic styles. First, a
ringlet shaped lock with bundles of fibers together and the next a flat and
wavy lock. Most of the angora goat also have kemp or medulated fibers, a
hollow core. These are coarser and shorter and make the garment feel
scratchy. The breeder work hard to overcome the goat has these kinds of
hairs.
Characteristics of Mohair Wool Fabric
- It is lustrous.
- It is silky and luxurious.
- It is strong and durable.
- It is lightweight.
- It is elastic up to 30%.
- It is a good insulator. It provides warmth during the winter and
keep the body cool in summers.
- It is resistant to wrinkle, soiling, stretching and sagging.
- It is easily blendable.
- It is non-crushable.
- It drapes well.
- It absorbs dye completely and indelibly.
- It does not burn easily unless exposed to a direct flame.
- It absorbs and releases moisture easily, hence moving perspiration
away from the skin.
- It does not felt or shrink, hence it is easy to wash.
Uses of Mohair Wool Fabric
- Mohair has tremendous versatility. Its lightweight, the lustrous
quality and silkiness has made it good for lightweight suiting, fabric
for stoles and scarves.
- The warmth quality and durability makes good use as blankets and
upholstery. It is also used as Linings, pile fabrics, braids, dress
materials, felt hats, shawls and sweaters.
- The softness and non-itchy quality of the fabric has made it a good
option for babywear and kids sets.
- It is also used for carpets and interior textiles.
