Mohair comes from the Angora goat, not the Angora rabbit (which produces Angora fiber, a different material). Kid mohair, from the first shearing of a young goat, is the softest grade. Adult mohair is slightly coarser but still used in many high-end yarns. Most commercial mohair yarn is blended with silk or nylon to improve stitch definition, since pure mohair is slippery and difficult to work with.
The most common crochet use for mohair is held alongside a thinner yarn. One strand of lace-weight or fingering-weight mohair held together with a fingering or sport-weight base yarn creates a fabric with a warm halo and good drape, popular for shawls, cardigans, and blouses. Hook size depends on the base yarn, typically 3.5 to 5.0 mm.
Care requires attention. Mohair felts readily if agitated in warm water. Hand wash in cold water with a small amount of wool wash, gently squeeze (do not wring), and dry flat. Do not machine wash unless the label specifically states it is superwash treated.
Quick reference
- Care
- Hand wash cold. Do not wring or agitate. Dry flat. Mohair felts if exposed to heat and friction.
Best for
- Shawls
- Lightweight cardigans
- Blouses
- Held-together cowls
- Decorative accents
Not sure which weight to use for your project? Try the free yarn weight converter to find the closest substitute for any yarn in your stash.