Two ways to work with and wash untreated yarns
There are two ways to wash unprocessed yarns on cones and make them reach their full splendor, just like the sweaters you buy in stores.
One is simpler, the other a little less so.
Let's start with the simpler one:
1 – Wash the yarn directly. From the cone, you can create skeins of 200-250 grams using a swift (if you don't have one, you can also use the backrest of a chair), making at least 5-6 strong, intertwined ties at roughly the same distance from each other. Be very careful, as the yarn risks getting tangled if the ties are not done well, and you might have to throw everything away. Then, wash the yarn directly in the washing machine using the procedure described at the bottom of this page.
To avoid risking ruining all the yarn, if you are not already experienced with this type of washing, it is better to make a small skein of 40-50 grams first and wash it to be sure of the result.
I highly recommend making a 10x10 or 20x20 swatch before starting the final project.
This way, you can work with the already washed yarn after it has dried (skeins can also be hung to dry). You can make balls of yarn or work with it directly in skeins.
2 – Work the yarn and then wash the finished garment. Make a 10x10 or, even better, a 20x20 cm swatch using the same stitch you plan to use for the finished garment. Count the stitches and measure the swatch carefully before and after washing it. Wash the swatch in the washing machine using the procedure described at the bottom of this page. This way, you can later check the yield and determine the size and, consequently, the yarn consumption. You can also check the hand of the fabric: if the result is a tight (denser) fabric, you will get less softness and more pilling resistance; conversely, if the fabric is looser (less dense), you will get more softness and a little less pilling resistance.
WASHING MACHINE TREATMENT:
Washing in the washing machine is done to bring out the classic cashmere pile on the surface of the fiber. The recommended wash is very delicate, and the presence of vinegar will be an excellent descaler:
– Wash in the washing machine at 30° for 7 minutes with very little detergent for delicate garments
– Rinse in the washing machine
– Wash in the washing machine at 30° for 7 minutes with very little fabric softener and 1/4 scoop of white wine vinegar
– Spin at 400 rpm for 5 minutes (or as little as possible)
– Dry flat, avoiding direct sunlight
– For strong and contrasting colors in striped and jacquard knitwear, we recommend a preliminary dry cleaning and washing garments with a half load and plenty of water.
This washing procedure is valid whether it's a swatch, a finished garment, or the yarn itself.
This washing procedure should only be performed the first time; subsequently, it is recommended to hand wash garments following this procedure:
If you want your sweater to always remain soft and fluffy, follow these tips:
Soak it in lukewarm water with a delicate detergent or hair shampoo (use very little), adding a bit of white vinegar for stripes or bright colors.
Let it soak for a short time, at most ten to fifteen minutes.
Do not rub it and handle it gently.
Rinse it patiently several times with plenty of lukewarm water until the water is perfectly clear.
Do not wring it out, but remove the water by gently pressing.
Wrap the sweater in a terry towel to remove excess water.
Lay it flat on a horizontal surface, taking care to avoid direct exposure to the sun.
Let it air dry at room temperature, never near a heat source.
Iron it with a strong jet of steam without pressing with the iron.
A small tip: wash your Cashmere sweater often; this way, the fibers will regain new vigor, and your garment will always be like new.
