Cashmere 101

NOT ALL CASHMERE IS CREATED EQUAL
Cashmere is a unique yarn that is made from rare fibers sourced from the underbelly of cashmere goats that are mainly found in Mongolia and China. To adapt to the harsh climate where they live, these goats grow a double fleece, the outer layer that protects the undercoat from water, and the undercoat made of ultra-fine hairs that insulates and keeps the goats warm but not too hot in the summer months. The fibers are graded based on several characteristics, including thickness, length and color, and priced accordingly. 

MANUFACTURING
The fibers are woven, dyed and finished into the final product. NOW ARRIVING scarves are 7 gauge knit and 2-ply, which classifies the yarn and knit count and thickness of the yarn. 

WEAR TEST
The Journey Scarves passed the standard manufacturer wear test prior to final shipping. In addition, Helena and Daniel wear tested all four scarves for two months, wearing it through the East Coast winter, countless commutes and several plane rides. On top of every day wear, they conducted a friction wear test, rubbing two sides of each sample scarf together to see how the fabric reacts to friction. There was some gathering and rise on the fabric after the every day and friction wear tests, which is a natural result from use. 

PILLING
Pilling occurs naturally in many fabrics, especially with cashmere fibers no matter the brand, manufacturer, price point or item. We have personally experienced major pilling of cashmere pieces from many European and American luxury brands, and several brands and the finest dry cleaners in New York and London have confirmed this fact over the phone. Remember, everything from rubbing against a bag strap, coat lining, sweater or seat belt can cause pilling. 

CARE
How you care for your piece is extremely important in the lifecycle of your Journey Scarf. We personally use the Conair Fabric Shaver (available here on Amazon and Target) to get rid of all pills. We have not had to use it on our Journey Scarves in the past three months. A client of ours has worn her scarf every day for two months, but has also been rough with it, stuffing in and pulling out of bags, throwing it in the car and constantly fiddling with it. She has reported pilling and has also used Conair to remove the pills on her scarf. 

The claim is that organic dry cleaning is the easiest way to clean your cashmere, while many credible media outlets and personal stories argue that dry cleaning is not the best way, but the most expensive way to keep your cashmere clean. Here is a Real Simple tutorial on how to clean your cashmere at home. 

NOW ARRIVING is not responsible for any damages caused by personal and third party cleaning methods. Cashmere is a luxury fabric, so please be gentle and handle your cashmere with care.