| For some people Mohair Throws represent a stylish | | | | qualities. Mohair does not have the same "prickle" |
| and luxurious accessory for your bedroom or lounge. | | | | feeling that wool does. Renowned for its sheen and |
| For others, it sounds like a different language. In this | | | | lustre, it also takes dye easily. The resulting fabrics or |
| article we unravel a few facts about Mohair throws. | | | | blankets are in fabulous colours with that rich silky |
| Does Mohair come from a Mo? | | | | luxurious feel. In clothing, it is valued for its resistance |
| In Dr Suess books, a 'Mo' would no doubt be | | | | to stretching and creasing plus fire resistance. |
| responsible for leaving 'Mo hair' on the sofa, but the | | | | Are all Mohair Throws the same? |
| answer is no. Mohair is from the very silky hair of an | | | | Because Mohair does cost more than wool or other |
| Angora goat, and according to Wikipedia, the word | | | | fibres, some manufacturers are tempted to blend |
| has been in use for centuries, and Mohair is one of | | | | fibres. So always ensure that any throw that you |
| the oldest textile fibres in use. | | | | buy is 100% mohair fibre. |
| Where are Mohair Goats found, and how is it | | | | How do I care for my mohair throw? |
| harvested? | | | | Mohair is a smooth fibre, so often a good vigorous |
| Although suspected to originate in Tibet, until about | | | | shake will dislodge dirt and other particles. If it needs |
| 1850, the main producer of these goats was the | | | | the occasional wash, it can be hand washed in water |
| Ankara region, in Turkey. (Note the similarities in the | | | | with wool wash or fabric softener. Give it a clean |
| words 'Ankara' and 'Angora'). Angora goats are now | | | | water rinse, and a spin dry, then hang over the line |
| farmed around the world, with commercial scale | | | | to dry, but do not tumble dry. It can also be dry |
| production in many countries, including South Africa, | | | | cleaned by a reputable dry cleaner. |
| United States, Australia and of course New Zealand. | | | | It is not surprising that Mohair Throws are so sought |
| Each goat is clipped or shorn twice a year, yielding | | | | after as a luxurious home accessory or wedding gift. |
| around 5 kg (11 pounds) per year. | | | | (Being so light they can be shipped around the world |
| What is so special about Mohair? | | | | for very little cost). It looks that this prized fibre will |
| Goats and sheep may be similar, but mohair and wool | | | | continue to be treasured for centuries more. |
| are not. Mohair is incredibly light, with great insulating | | | | |