Lifehacks for mohair yarn
Mohair Hacks Every Knitter and Crocheter Should Know
Mohair has a special place in the hearts of fiber lovers. It’s light, soft, warm, and has that dreamy halo that makes any project look luxurious. But working with mohair can also feel intimidating: it tangles easily, can be hard to frog, and needs special care. The good news? With the right hacks, mohair becomes one of the most rewarding yarns you’ll ever use.
Here are some tried-and-true tips to make your next mohair project a success.
1. Choose the right tools
Mohair is slippery, so the tools you use matter. Instead of metal needles or hooks, try wood or bamboo — they give you better grip and control. Many knitters also size up their needles slightly to let the fluffy fibers “breathe” and show off the halo.
2. Swatch before you dive in
Mohair behaves differently once it’s washed. Always knit a small swatch, give it a gentle soak, and let it dry flat. You’ll see if the fabric shrinks, stretches, or changes in density — and that can save you from surprises later on.
3. Take it slow when frogging
If you’ve ever tried ripping back mohair, you know the pain: those tiny fibers cling to each other like Velcro. The trick is to frog slowly, one stitch at a time. Some crafters even keep a spray bottle of water nearby to lightly mist the fabric, which helps loosen fibers.
4. Care is everything
Your mohair sweater or cardigan will last for years if you wash it right. Hand wash in cool water or use your machine’s delicate cycle at 86F (30C). Never wring out mohair — just gently squeeze and lay it flat to dry. Direct sunlight can damage fibers, so let it dry in the shade.
5. Mind your tension
Tight stitches can crush mohair’s natural halo. Keep your tension light and let the yarn bloom. A looser gauge makes the fabric softer, drapier, and more comfortable to wear. This is especially true for airy shawls, scarves, and oversized sweaters.
Pure mohair is stunning, but mohair blends (with silk, wool, or even acrylic) often make life easier. A mohair-silk mix adds shine and strength, while mohair with wool brings more warmth. These blends are also less tricky to rip back and can be more forgiving for beginners.
Mohair may not be the easiest yarn to handle, but once you learn its quirks, it becomes a dream to work with. From tool choice to washing, these hacks will help you get the best out of every skein. So grab that fuzzy yarn, cast on, and let mohair’s magic transform your next project.