What is the Difference Between Cashmere Worsted and Cashmere Woollen

Table of Contents

1. Definitions and Key Differences

2. Yarn Count and Specifications

3. Fabric Texture and Appearance

4. Manufacturing Processes

5. Performance Comparison (Durability, Pilling Resistance, etc.)

6. Applications in Fashion

7. Care and Maintenance

8. Market Trends and Pricing

Introduction

Cashmere is renowned for its unmatched softness and warmth, making it one of the most luxurious natural fibers globally. However, not all cashmere is the same. Two main spinning techniques—worsted and woolen—create yarns with different characteristics, which in turn affect their texture, durability, and intended use.

1. Definitions and Key Differences

Aspect	Cashmere Worsted	Cashmere Woollen
Definition	Made using a combing process for smoother, finer yarn	Made without combing, resulting in a thicker, fluffier yarn
Yarn Structure	Tightly spun, uniform fibers	Loosely spun, bulkier fibers
Raw Material Use	Only 30% of raw cashmere qualifies	Uses nearly all raw cashmere
Common Uses	Lightweight sweaters, summer clothing	Winter coats, scarves, cozy knitwear

Key Takeaways:

Worsted cashmere is smoother, stronger, and more refined.

• Woollen cashmere is softer, fluffier, and warmer.

2. Yarn Count and Specifications

The yarn count (Nm) determines thickness and quality:

Type	Yarn Count Range (Nm)	Common Specifications
Woollen	1/3.5 – 1/36	1/26, 1/28
Semi-Worsted	1/26 – 1/60	1/48
Worsted	1/48 – 1/180	2/48

Analysis:

• Lower Nm = Thicker yarn (Woollen is bulkier).

• Higher Nm = Finer yarn (Worsted is lightweight).

3. Fabric Texture and Appearance

Characteristic	Worsted Cashmere	Woollen Cashmere
Surface Feel	Smooth, silky	Fuzzy, textured
Sheen	Subtle gloss (like silk)	Matte, natural
Thickness	Thin, breathable	Thick, insulating
Drape	Flowy, elegant	Structured, cozy

Visual Comparison:

• Worsted: For tailored summer cashmere clothing and lightweight cashmere scarves.

• Wool: For heavy cashmere sweaters and winter cashmere accessories.

4. Manufacturing Process Comparison

Woollen Spinning Process:

• Blending – Mixing raw cashmere fibers.

• Carding – Aligning fibers loosely.

• Spinning – Creating a fluffy yarn.

• Winding – Final yarn preparation.

Worsted Spinning Process:

• Blending & Carding – Initial fiber alignment.

• Combing – Removing short fibers (key difference).

• Drawing & Roving – Refining yarn fineness.

• Spinning & Winding – Producing a sleek yarn.

Why Worsted Cashmere Costs More?

• 30% less raw material is usable after combing.

• More labor-intensive process.

5. Performance Comparison

Factor	Worsted Cashmere	Woollen Cashmere
Durability	High (longer fibers)	Moderate
Pilling	3+ hours (Grade 3)	2 hours (Grade 3)
Wrinkle Resistance	Excellent	Moderate
Warmth	Lightweight insulation	Heavy insulation

Why Worsted Resists Pilling Better?

• Short fibers, which are responsible for pilling, are removed during the combing process.

6. Applications in Fashion

Season	Worsted Cashmere Uses	Woollen Cashmere Uses
Spring	Light cardigans, blouses	N/A (too warm)
Summer	Thin shawls, wraps	N/A
Autumn	Light sweaters, office wear	Medium-weight scarves
Winter	Layering pieces	Thick coats, heavy sweaters

Trend Insight:

• Worsted: Gaining popularity in luxury athleisure.

• Woollen: Preferred for sustainable, slow-fashion knitwear.

7. Care and Maintenance

Care Aspect	Worsted Cashmere	Woollen Cashmere
Washing	Hand wash, mild detergent	Hand wash, avoid agitation
Drying	Lay flat, reshape while wet	Lay flat, avoid stretching
Ironing	Steam iron (low heat)	Avoid ironing (may flatten)
Storage	Fold, avoid hangers	Fold, use cedar blocks

Pro Tip:

• Worsted garments require wet-blocking to prevent wrinkles.

8. Market Trends and Pricing

Factor	Worsted Cashmere	Woollen Cashmere
Price (per kg)	300−600	150−400
Luxury Brands	Loro Piana, IMField	N.Peal, IMField
Sustainability	Less waste (but more processing)	More eco-friendly (full fiber use)

Consumer Preference:

• Europe & U.S.: Prefer worsted for its refined look.

• Asia: Woollen is popular for ultra-soft winter wear.

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

• For Elegance and Durability: Opt for worsted cashmere, which is ideal for summer and light knits.

• For Warmth and Softness: Choose wool cashmere, perfect for knitted sweaters and scarves.

• Both types of cashmere offer unique advantages, so the best choice depends on your climate, style, and budget.

Contact Us