Can cashmere be felted?

Yes, cashmere can be felted.

Cashmere is a protein fiber, similar to wool, and it has natural scales on the fiber surface. When exposed to heat, moisture, and agitation, these scales interlock, causing the fibers to shrink and mat together—a process known as felting.

Felting can happen:

• Accidentally, when cashmere is washed in hot water or agitated

• Intentionally, when controlled heat, water, and movement are applied to create a dense fabric

Once cashmere is felted:

• The fabric becomes denser and stiffer

• The surface loses its original softness and drape

• The garment cannot be returned to its original size or texture

Because cashmere fibers are finer than regular wool, felted cashmere often feels smoother and more compact, but it also loses elasticity and luxury softness.

In summary, cashmere can be felted, but felting is usually undesirable for sweaters and garments, which is why cashmere requires gentle washing and careful handling.