Mohair is a luxurious fabric, but do you know where it comes from?
Where does mohair come from?
Mohair comes from the Angora goat, and is most commonly obtained from Turkey, South Africa and the US. The special hair fibre has been produced for thousands of years, with the biggest consumers being the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium. It is made up of mostly keratin, like other wools, but is considered much softer than other animals’ hair.
What is the history of the term mohair?
Mohair comes from the Arabic word ‘mukhayyar’, which translates as ‘goat’s hair fabric’. Initially only available from Turkey, it became less exclusive during the 19th century as goats were introduced and bred in other areas, making it more commercial from the mid-1800s. With global trade now the norm, mohair can easily be purchased in many high street stores.
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How is mohair obtained?
The Angora goat typically grows a long, thick fleece up to 30cm each year. Goats are shorn twice a year, yielding large amounts of mohair each time. Over time, breeders have been selective to ensure that the best quality material is made available. Breeders want soft fibres, not coarse locks.
Where is mohair most likely seen?
Mohair, thanks to its incredibly soft qualities, is commonly used in textiles such as jumpers, coats and accessories like scarves and gloves. Mohair itself is quite an expensive material, so some retailers offer blends of mohair with other materials.
Do you have any mohair items in your wardrobe?
