Process producing cashmere starts with harvesting from cashmere goats. These goats have a double-layered coat, with a fine undercoat of soft fibers that provide warmth and insulation. Harvesting cashmere involves several steps, which I’ll describe below
Rearing Cashmere Goats: Imagine yourself in the picturesque countryside of Mongolia, a vast landscape where the nomadic herders have raised cashmere goats for centuries. These hardy goats with their distinctive curled horns roam freely, grazing on the sparse vegetation of the steppes. The herders have developed a deep understanding of these animals, carefully breeding and rearing them for their valuable cashmere fibers.
Shedding or Shearing: As spring arrives and the snow begins to melt, a remarkable transformation takes place. The cashmere goats, sensing the change in seasons, start to shed their thick winter coats. It’s a mesmerizing sight to witness as tufts of soft, fine fibers flutter in the breeze like ethereal snowflakes. The herders take advantage of this natural shedding process, patiently collecting the delicate cashmere fibers, knowing that each strand is precious.
Fiber Separation: Back in the herder’s humble dwelling, the gathered cashmere fibers are meticulously sorted. The herder’s experienced hands deftly separate the valuable undercoat from the coarse guard hairs, ensuring only the finest fibers remain. This process requires both skill and patience, as the delicate cashmere fibers are handled with great care to avoid damage.
Washing: Now comes the time to cleanse the cashmere fibers of any impurities acquired during the goats’ wanderings. In a rustic wooden basin, filled with pure mountain water, the fibers are gently immersed and caressed. A mild soap is added, releasing the fibers from the grasp of dirt and grime. The herder’s hands move rhythmically through the water, guiding the fibers to a state of pristine cleanliness.
Drying: The freshly washed cashmere fibers are now ready to embrace the warmth of the sun. They are gently squeezed, removing excess water, and then laid out on woven mats to dry. The gentle breeze carries with it the sweet scent of wildflowers as it rustles through the fibers, hastening the drying process. The herders keep a watchful eye, ensuring the fibers are evenly spread, allowing nature to work its magic.
Sorting and Grading: With the fibers now dry, the herders gather around a weathered wooden table adorned with piles of cashmere. Their skilled eyes scan each strand, assessing its color, length, and fineness. A subtle nod of approval accompanies the separation of the fibers into different grades. The finest cashmere, as soft as a whisper, is reserved for the most exquisite creations, while the slightly coarser fibers find their place in more robust garments.
Spinning: It is time for the transformation of fibers into thread, a delicate dance of craftsmanship. A skilled artisan, seated at a traditional spinning wheel, places the precious cashmere fibers onto the spindle. With practiced precision, they spin the fibers into yarn, drawing out their inherent softness and strength. The rhythmic whirl of the wheel resonates with the soothing hum of creation.
Weaving/Knitting: The spun cashmere yarn is now ready to be woven or knitted into a myriad of luxurious creations. In a cozy cottage nestled among rolling hills, skilled artisans or modern knitting machines bring life to the cashmere threads. Sweaters, scarves, shawls, and blankets take shape, their intricate patterns showcasing the timeless elegance of cashmere. Each stitch is a testament to the craftsmanship and the enduring allure of this extraordinary fiber.