Hey there! As a supplier of chenille knit fabric, I often get asked how it stacks up against mohair fabric. So, I thought I'd break it down for you in this blog post.
Let's start with the basics. Chenille knit fabric is a type of textile that has a soft, fuzzy surface. It's made by weaving or knitting yarns together in a way that creates these little tufts or loops on the surface. This gives it a plush and velvety feel, making it super comfortable to touch. On the other hand, mohair fabric comes from the hair of the Angora goat. It's known for its long, silky fibers that give it a lustrous sheen and a very soft texture.
One of the first things people notice when comparing these two fabrics is the look. Chenille knit fabric has a more casual and cozy appearance. It can have a bit of a rustic charm, especially in some of the more textured varieties. You can find it in a wide range of colors, from bright and bold to more muted and neutral tones. For example, we have some really nice options like Navy Chenille Sofa Fabric, which is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to a living room sofa. The navy color is deep and rich, and the chenille texture gives it a warm and inviting look.
Mohair fabric, on the other hand, has a more sophisticated and refined look. The long, smooth fibers reflect light in a way that gives it a beautiful shine. It's often used in high - end fashion and home decor items where a more luxurious appearance is desired. Mohair can be a bit more limited in color options compared to chenille, as it usually comes in more natural and pastel - like shades.
When it comes to feel, both fabrics are incredibly soft. Chenille knit fabric has a sort of cuddly softness. It's like hugging a cloud. The tufts on the surface give it a bit of a cushiony feel, which makes it great for things like blankets and pillows. You can sink into a chenille - covered pillow and just relax. Mohair, however, has a different kind of softness. It's more of a smooth, silky softness. Running your hand over a mohair fabric feels like gliding over a gentle stream. But it can be a bit more delicate compared to chenille.
In terms of durability, chenille knit fabric is generally quite tough. The way it's knitted or woven gives it good strength. It can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear, which makes it suitable for furniture upholstery. For instance, our Charcoal Chenille is a great choice for a busy living room sofa. It can handle kids jumping on it and pets lying around without showing too much damage. Mohair, on the other hand, is a bit more fragile. The long fibers can be easily snagged or pulled out, so it requires more careful handling. It's not the best option for high - traffic areas or items that will be used roughly.
Another important factor is the cost. Chenille knit fabric is usually more budget - friendly. It's made from a variety of yarns, and the manufacturing process is relatively straightforward. This means that you can get a good quality chenille fabric at a reasonable price. Mohair, on the other hand, is more expensive. The process of getting the mohair from the Angora goats and then turning it into fabric is more labor - intensive and time - consuming. So, if you're on a tight budget, chenille might be the way to go.
Let's talk about maintenance. Chenille knit fabric is fairly easy to maintain. Most of the time, you can just vacuum it to keep it clean. If there are stains, you can spot - clean them with a mild detergent. It can also usually be machine - washed on a gentle cycle, depending on the specific type of chenille. Mohair, however, is more high - maintenance. It's best to dry - clean mohair fabric to avoid damaging the fibers. This can add to the overall cost of owning a mohair item.
In terms of versatility, chenille knit fabric is a real winner. It can be used in so many different ways. You can use it for upholstery, as I mentioned before, but also for clothing like sweaters and scarves. Our Chenille Gold is a great example. It can be used to make a beautiful, eye - catching scarf that will add a pop of color to any outfit. Mohair is more commonly used in high - end fashion and some select home decor items like curtains and throws. It's not as commonly used in everyday clothing as chenille.
So, which one should you choose? Well, it really depends on your needs and preferences. If you're looking for a durable, budget - friendly, and versatile fabric that's easy to maintain, chenille knit fabric is a great option. It's perfect for those who want a cozy and comfortable look in their homes or in their clothing. On the other hand, if you're willing to spend a bit more for a more luxurious, refined look and don't mind the extra care, mohair fabric might be the right choice for you.
If you're interested in purchasing chenille knit fabric for your next project, whether it's a sofa upholstery, a new sweater, or a decorative pillow, feel free to reach out. We have a wide range of colors and styles to choose from, and we're always happy to help you find the perfect fabric for your needs.
References
- Textile industry reports on fabric characteristics
- Interviews with fabric experts in the field