When purchasing a cashmere sweater, it is useful to understand a bit about knit quality.
Ply refers to the number of strands twisted together to make the yarn. The more strands in the yarn, the higher the ply. For instance, Yarn that comprises two threads is called 2 ply yarn, four threads is 4 ply yarn, and so on.
Gauge refers to the number of stitches per inch/cm of knit fabric. A cashmere garment with a high gauge will have more stitches per inch and will therefore be a finer knit than a garment knit with a lower gauge, which has fewer stitches per inch.
Yarn weight is also an important factor in relation to the quality of the knit. This has to do with both the thickness of each strand wound into the yarn, as well as the number of plies and gauge used to make the garment.
It is important that the plies in the yarn correspond correctly with the gauge used to knit the garment. For example, a cashmere sweater knit with a two-ply yarn using needle that is too large, such as 7 or 5 gauge, will result in a loose stitch that will pill and not hold its shape.
Therefore, when choosing a cashmere sweater be sure that the stitches are tight and smooth. If the stitches are too loose pilling and stretching will occur.
Our guide to quality
Henderson Cashmere always employs the correct ply and gauge when crafting our fine cashmere garments. The result is an excellent cashmere quality, regardless of knit weight.
Our specially carded ultrafine gossamer thread twisted into a 2-ply strand is used to make the Henderson Cashmere Whisperlight™️ scarf. This is what gives our exquisite scarf its distinctive luminescence and floaty-fine, soft and delicate feel.
Our most popular knit, the Henderson jersey™️, is made with a medium-weight 2-ply yarn, knit with a 12-gauge needle.
For our thicker 5- and 7-gauge Henderson double cashmere™️ knits, we increase the plys to create a deep, luscious, creamy-thick knit texture that holds its shape with a minimum of pilling.
At Henderson Cashmere we are scrupulous about knit quality to ensure that your beloved cashmere sweater will stay beautiful for years to come.