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Knitting Guide

Understanding ply, gauge, and yarn composition can help you choose knitwear with confidence. These terms describe how a garment is made and how it will feel, wear, and perform over time.


Ply, Gauge and Weight: Why They Matter

Ply, gauge, and weight all affect the look, feel, and warmth of a knitted garment. On their own, they do not determine quality.

In cashmere knitwear, value is influenced mainly by:

  • the grade of cashmere fibre
  • the amount of cashmere used
  • the weight of the finished knit

In general, 100% cashmere garments are more expensive than blended yarns, and heavier cashmere knits tend to cost more than lighter ones.

High-quality cashmere is typically made from long, fine fibres, which create yarn that feels softer, smoother, and more durable over time.

A beautifully made cashmere sweater, when cared for properly, can become a lasting heirloom piece.


What is Gauge?

Gauge refers to the number of knitting needles used per inch of fabric.

  • Lower gauge knits are looser and more relaxed in structure
  • Higher gauge knits are tighter and more refined in finish

Gauge affects:

  • texture
  • drape
  • warmth
  • overall feel

What is Ply?

Ply refers to the number of individual yarn strands twisted together to form a single thread.

  • 2-ply yarn is made by twisting two strands together
  • this creates better balance and strength in the yarn
  • thicker ply yarns usually feel warmer and heavier

In general, higher ply knits require more material, which can also affect price.


How MIKA & MILO Does It

We work closely with our partner factories in Inner Mongolia to source luxury cashmere and carefully selected cashmere blends without unnecessary middlemen.

This allows us to create beautifully made knitwear with a strong focus on:

  • softness
  • craftsmanship
  • durability
  • everyday wearability

Thoughtfully made knitwear, designed to be worn, loved, and handed down.

As Seen In

British Vogue
Vanity Fair
Junior Design Awards 2025
Junior Design Awards 2023

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