Cashmere

It is extraordinary to discover that such a delicate fibre has humble beginnings in one of the most desolate regions of the world. Kasmir, the Northern most province of India is thought to be the origin of cashmere goats, although not all experts agree on this. Others believe that cashmere originates from the Kashmira goats of the Himalayas. The cashmere goat often lives at great altitude in varying temperatures so it develops a special two in one coat. Its outercoat is extremely coarse and wiry, and the inner or undercoat is much softer and silkier.

The fibre used in Eribé's cashmere garments is combed from the wiry undergoat of the Chinese and Mongolian goats, removed by combing the hair to remove the fibre. Each goat produces 3 to 8 ounces of cashmere per year and it takes the average goat between 3 and 4 years to produce enough fibre to make a women's jumper.

The transformation of cashmere, however, happens halfway around the world in Scotland. Here, using more than a century of wisdom and with a little bit of help from modern technology, the fibre is transformed into top quality cashmere yarn in beautiful colours, before it is knitted by skilled craftspeople and transformed into garments that look and feel good for years.

Cashmere has been knitten and woven in Scotland since the early 19th century. Nowadays designers from all over the world come to Scotland to make their designs into reality.

Eribé Knitwear made from this luxurious fibre requires careful care and attention. Please follow Eribé Cashmere garments care guide to ensure your garment remains as beautiful as it was when you bought it.

ERIBÉ HAND PAINTED CASHMERE

Rosemary Eribé hand paints directly on to fine 1 ply cashmere, using it as a canvas to create a variety of Artwear. The cashmere is unaffected and remains soft to the touch.

The idea came to her while walking round an art exhibition. Nowadays, few people can afford the luxury of large homes to hang the many paintings that are on offer. But we all need clothes, so why not invest in a painted cashmere which can last for 20 years and be enjoyed in a lively way.

View our Cashmere Collection

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ROSEMARY PAINTING ON TO CASHMERE: