Knitting and Crocheting with Mohair – Soft, Shiny & Demanding: Tips for Handling & Care

Mohair is the diva among yarns: as light as air, fluffy like a cloud, and glowing with silky elegance. 

But let's be honest – knitting or crocheting with it can be a bit of a challenge. 😅 

🐐 What is Mohair, Anyway?

Mohair comes from the Angora goat (not to be confused with Angora from rabbits!). 

It's known for being:

• shiny and silky

• lightweight yet insulating

• delicately fuzzy

Because it traps air so well, mohair works for all seasons – including lightweight summer garments.

🧶 Working With Mohair – Here's How to Tame the Fluff

1. Use a companion yarn

Hold mohair together with a smooth yarn (like merino or cotton) to improve stitch definition and stability.

2. Choose larger needles

Even if the yarn is fine, mohair loves space! Try needle sizes 4–6 mm for a light and airy effect.

3. Keep it simple & well-lit

The fluff can obscure your stitches – stick with basic patterns and make sure you're working in good light.

4. Frogging? Proceed with caution

Mohair tends to tangle and mat. If you make a mistake, try carefully unpicking with a blunt needle or crochet hook – or simply leave it be if it's not too noticeable. 😉

☀️ Can You Wear Mohair in Summer?

Absolutely! A light mohair piece can be breezy and elegant, especially when using:

• lace stitches or drop stitch patterns

• open structures and relaxed tension

• soft pastel shades or neutral tones for a summery feel

👚 Mini Pattern: Summer Mohair Top

Yarn: 50 g mohair (blended with silk or cotton)
Needles: size 5 mm
Pattern: stockinette + drop stitches

Instructions:
– Knit two simple rectangles (front & back)
– Sew shoulder seams
– Add a neckline edge with an I-cord or crochet border

✨ Done! A breezy, delicate top with minimal effort.

🧴 Caring for Mohair – Handle With Love

• No washing if possible – just air it out

• If needed: cold handwash only, use wool detergent, never rub

• Lay flat to dry, do not hang

• Don't iron – use steam from a distance if necessary

🎯 Storage tip: Keep mohair in cotton bags, not airtight – this protects the fluff and prevents moths.

💰 Is Mohair Expensive?

Yes – but worth it. High-quality mohair yarns (especially those blended with silk) come at a premium. However, mohair is incredibly economical – you often need very little to complete a project.

My Recommendations:

• Lang Yarns Mohair Luxe – elegant, soft, luxurious

• Drops Kid-Silk – great value for money

• Kremke Silky Kid – light & available in many colors

• Rowan Kidsilk Haze – a true classic

• Pro Lana Kid Seta – high-quality and accessible, even for beginners

✨ My Takeaway: Fluffy but Fabulous

Mohair may have a reputation for being tricky, but with the right tools and mindset, it becomes a magical material. It adds elegance, softness, and a hint of luxury to any project – even in summer. 💫

Take it slow, stay patient, and let the fluff do its thing. Your finished piece will be worth every stitch.

🧶 Have you worked with mohair before? 

Show your piece in my Facebook group – or drop your favorite mohair tips to help others! 

#strickenimtrend #mohairlove #fluffystitches #knittingtips #summeryarn

With fluffy regards, 

Your Kathrin ☀️🧶