Washing yarns on cones
There are two ways to wash untreated yarn on cones and bring it to its 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 back of a chair), making at least 5-6 strong, intertwined ties approximately equidistant from each other, being very careful. The risk is that the yarn will tangle if the ties are not done well, and everything will have to be thrown away. Then, wash the yarn directly in the washing machine using the procedure described at the bottom of this page.
It is essential, however, to first make a sample skein of 30-40 grams and wash it before washing all the yarn, especially if you are not experienced. And it is then essential to make a sample of about 10x10 cm before making the final piece.
This way, you can work with the yarn already washed after it has dried (skeins can also be hung to dry). You can make balls of yarn or work with it directly from the skeins.
2 – Work the yarn and then wash the finished garment. Make a sample of 10x10 or, even better, 20x20 cm using the same stitch you will use for the finished garment. Count the stitches and measure the sample carefully before and after washing it. Wash the sample 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 consumption, and you can check the feel. If the result is a tight (denser) fabric, you will get less softness and more resistance to pilling. Conversely, if the fabric is looser (less dense), you will get more softness and slightly less resistance to pilling.
MACHINE WASHING TREATMENT:
Machine washing is performed when you want the classic cashmere "halo" to emerge on the surface of the fiber. The indicated wash is very delicate, and the presence of vinegar will be an excellent descaling agent:
– Machine wash at 30°C for 5 minutes with very little delicate detergent
– Rinse in the washing machine
– Machine wash at 30°C for 5 minutes with very little fabric softener and 1/4 of a measuring cup of white wine vinegar
– Spin at 400 rpm for 3-4 minutes (or as low as possible)
– Dry flat, avoiding direct sunlight
– For strong and contrasting colors in striped and jacquard knitwear, we recommend a first dry cleaning and washing garments with a half load and plenty of water.
This washing procedure is valid whether it is for a sample, a finished garment, or the yarn itself.
When washing the finished garment, it is advisable to wash the already-made garment. Otherwise, there is a risk that, by washing the unsewn pieces, they will not shrink uniformly, and we will then have difficulties in assembly.
This washing procedure should only be performed the first time. Subsequently, it is recommended to wash garments by hand following this procedure:
If you want your pullover 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 in case of stripes or bright colors.
- Leave it to 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 water, always lukewarm, until the water is perfectly clear.
- Do not wring it out, but remove water by gently pressing.
- Wrap the pullover 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 little tip: wash your cashmere pullover often. This way, the fibers will regain new vigor, and your garment will always be like new.