Pure Cashmere

Pure Cashmere is exactly that: a DK of 100% cashmere, 149 yards to a 50 g skein, made with the Scottish cashmere producer Todd & Duncan. Rowan says the fiber comes from nomadic herding communities in Inner Mongolia and is spun and dyed at a mill on the banks of Loch Leven.

It's gently plied, very soft and drapey, and it still holds a cable or lace pattern clearly. Small flecks of color add depth to each shade.

This is a yarn for one special thing worn close to the skin: a cowl, a hat, a pair of mitts, or the cuffs and collar of a cardigan knit in something sturdier. It also makes a thoughtful gift for a knitter who rarely buys cashmere for themselves.

Best for

• Cowls and neck warmers
• Hats and fingerless mitts
• Small cabled or lace accessories
• Gifts that will be worn every winter

Working with it

Rowan recommends US 5 needles for 22 stitches and 30 rows to 4 inches. Cashmere has little elasticity, so ribbing won't pull in as firmly as wool; go down a needle size for cuffs and brims. Smooth wood or metal needles both work well. Since yardage per skein is modest, run your project through the yarn estimator before you buy.

Care

Rowan lists hand wash cold, dry flat away from heat, no ironing, no tumble drying and no dry cleaning. Soak 10–15 minutes in cool water with a mild wool wash, squeeze gently, reshape and dry flat. Store it folded, never hung. Some pilling is normal early on and eases over time; a pilling comb takes care of it. See our silk and cashmere guide for more.