How to Choose the Right Cashmere Yarn for Your Project

Choosing the right cashmere yarn is critical to the success of any knitting project. Whether you are a luxury brand developing a new collection or an independent designer creating handmade pieces, understanding yarn counts, spinning systems, and gauge recommendations will help you achieve the perfect result.

Yarn count, measured in Nm (metric count), indicates the fineness of the yarn. Higher counts mean finer yarn. Common cashmere yarn counts include 2/26 Nm, 2/28 Nm, and 3/28 Nm. The first number indicates the number of ply, while the second indicates the count per ply. For example, 2/26 Nm means 2-ply yarn with each ply being 26 Nm.

Worsted spinning produces smoother, finer, and more durable yarn with excellent stitch definition. It is ideal for lightweight sweaters, fine scarves, and high-gauge knitting. Woolen spinning produces softer, bulkier, and warmer yarn, perfect for cozy sweaters and winter accessories. Arbas Studios offers both systems.

Gauge, measured in GG (gauge), refers to the number of needles per inch on a knitting machine. Finer yarns require higher gauge machines. For 2/26 Nm cashmere yarn, we recommend 12-14 GG. For 2/28 Nm, 14-16 GG is ideal. For 3/28 Nm, 10-12 GG works best.

Color selection is another crucial factor. Arbas Studios offers unlimited Pantone colors using eco-friendly, OEKO-TEX certified dyes. Custom color matching is available for bulk orders. Natural undyed cashmere is also available for brands seeking a more organic aesthetic.

When selecting cashmere yarn, also consider the end use. Hand knitting yarn needs to be softer and more forgiving, while machine knitting yarn requires consistent twist and minimal knots. Arbas Studios' wholesale cashmere yarn is crafted from 15.5μm and 14.5μm dehaired cashmere, ensuring consistent quality across every cone.

For brands looking to develop custom blends, Arbas Studios offers blending services with silk, wool, alpaca, and other natural fibers. Custom blends can achieve unique textures, reduce costs, or add specific performance characteristics to your yarn.