Karakul and swakara – what kind of fur is this?

The distinctive fur types known as karakul and swarkara are highly valued for their luxurious texture and eye-catching appearance. Not only are these furs stunning, but they also have a centuries-long history and hold great cultural value across the globe.

A breed of sheep originally from Central Asia produces the fur known as karakul. It is a popular choice for high-end fashion clothing because of its tight curls and shiny finish. Conversely, Swakara is a unique Karakul variety bred in Namibia. It is frequently regarded as even more opulent because of its finer, more consistent curl.

These furs have been a mainstay of fashion for many years, captivating both designers and consumers with their classic appeal. Knowing what makes Karakul and Swakara unique opens up a whole new way to appreciate their beauty, whether you’ve worked with these materials before or are just now becoming acquainted with them.

Fur Type Description
Karakul Karakul is a type of fur from lambs, known for its tightly curled, soft, and shiny texture. It’s often used in high-end fashion due to its unique appearance.
Swakara Swakara is a premium variety of Karakul fur from Namibia, prized for its fine, velvety curls and luxurious feel. It’s highly sought after in the fashion industry.

Two distinct fur types—Karakul and Swakara—are derived from a particular breed of sheep distinguished by their soft texture and unusually tight curls. Since ancient times, these furs have been prized for both their opulent appearance and warmth. Karakul, which is frequently connected to traditional clothing, is renowned for its wide range of hues and designs. Swakara, a Namibian variety of Karakul, is especially valued for its elegant, sophisticated appearance. Gaining an appreciation for these furs’ cultural significance and the skill with which they were produced is made easier by knowing them.

History of the origin of karakul

One of the first animals that humans bred for fur was the karakul sheep. The animal was unique not only for its exquisite fur but also for its unique lack of pretense, which allowed it to perfectly adapt to the harsh desert environment.

The Khorezm Khanate of Uzbekistan is the ancient ancestor of all Karakul sheep. The fur’s name originates from those locations as well. The word "karakul" means "black lake" in Russian. This reservoir, which is close to Bukhara, is where the breeding of Karakul sheep started.

For a long time, the Bukhara Khan was the only one with the authority to breed these creatures and create fur that was both costly and exquisite. And just a few years later, at the start of the 20th century, a number of people were sent to North Africa, specifically Namibia, where, as a result of modern technology, a unique variety of karakul known as "svakara" is produced today.

Karakul and broadtail – what is the difference?

It is well known that the skins of freshly born Karakul lambs are used to make Karakul. Individuals who are 1-3 days old are used in this process. Ultimately, the wool of an older lamb tends to be coarser. Every skin type astonishes with its distinct pattern, exceptional lightness, and silkiness.

But not everyone who doesn’t work in the fur industry can correctly respond to the query, "karakulcha: fur of whom?"

Lamb skins, similar to karakulcha, but not yet born. It is easily distinguished from karakul because the skin has a lovely moiré pattern, the hairs are short and closely spaced, and the curls have not yet developed.

The origins of these two kinds of fur are different, but so are the attributes that appeal to consumers.

Characteristics Karakul Karakulcha
Appearance The fur is dense, the curls are clear, fully formed. There is fur of silver, golden, black colors. The rarest colors are brown and white. The skin is silky and very soft to the touch. Unique moire pattern, not fully formed curl. Skins are small in size. Color is black, golden or silver.

Types of karakul

When it comes to karakul breeding, breeders aim to produce large quantities of identical skins that meet predetermined parameters and characteristics. It’s not really that easy. After all, there are at least twenty factors that affect karakul quality. Additionally, the demand for different types and shades of karakul is constantly changing due to fashion’s dictates. Three varieties of karakul are currently the most popular on the market.

Uzbek karakul

The experts from Uzbekistan bred the type of sheep used to produce this fur. Breeders relied on the finest jacket-type karakul with a unique pattern in an attempt to achieve lightness of fur. Tight fur curls that form tubular rollers of different lengths cover the skin’s surface.

Advantages:

  • unique pattern;
  • thin light fur;
  • fur hairs are tightly pressed against each other;
  • strong flesh side;
  • affordable price.

Cons:

  • small size of skins (11 dc2).

Afghan karakul (astrakhan)

Afghanistan produces the karakul. Superior quality thick fur is far more valuable than Uzbek fur. Sizes for skins typically range from 12 to 20 dc2. The fur surface is flat, ribbed, and has a peculiar, striking sheen. Afghan karakul is typically a dark gray color.

Advantages:

  • fascinating shine;
  • thick flesh side;
  • high strength;
  • large pelts;
  • spectacular fur.

Cons:

  • heavy weight of the product.

South African karakul – swakara

The African state of Namibia is where this particular variety of karakul is made. The fur’s surface is characterized by remarkably distinct parallel flat curls. The skins are canvases with a thickness akin to karakulcha.

The priciest karakul comes from Namibia. It is primarily used to sew chic coats and jackets for formal events.

Advantages:

  • clear ribbed pattern;
  • lightness;
  • small thickness;
  • respectability.

Cons:

  • high cost.

We appreciate any karakul of superior quality. Since Swakar is thought to be the most costly and prestigious fur, not everyone can afford it.

Features of karakul

Karakul fur is distinguished by its distinct density, texture, and silkiness. Due to the irreversible nature of the curl pattern, no two products crafted from this organic material are alike. Items from Karakul not only have a refined appearance but also effectively ward off moisture. Not only are they breathable and lightweight, but they also possess the same strength as regular sheepskin.

The primary benefits of karakul are:

  • plastic material allows you to create a variety of models;
  • ideal for decorating products;
  • perfectly combined with fabric, leather;
  • allows you to create exquisite and elegant clothes;
  • karakul products are suitable for any figure.

Although karakul winter clothing is warm and lightweight, it is hardly appropriate for the severe Russian winters without additional insulation. These clothes are better suited for the off-season, which is when the outside temperature is at least -10 °C.

Rules for caring for karakul items

The longevity and quality of a product over time is contingent upon appropriate maintenance and adherence to storage guidelines during the summer months. A professional dry cleaner is the better choice if your fur coat is really filthy. But, dust and minor stains are simple to remove from your home.

The following advice can be used to maintain a karakul mantle or coat:

  • The surface of karakul or broadtail can be wiped with a sponge soaked in a soap solution.
  • To remove dust, lay the product on a slightly damp sheet with the inside up and beat it out with paper rolled into a tube or a special plastic beater.
  • By wiping the surface of the fur with a cotton pad soaked in a 5% vinegar solution, you can restore its original shine and silkiness.
  • Dirty areas are treated with starch. A greasy stain is sprinkled with powder, lightly rubbed into the pile, and then cleaned with a clothes brush.
  • So that there are no breams and proplesh, it is not recommended to wear a bag on the shoulder or leave a brooch chopped in one place for a long time.

Karakul should never be washed, ironed, or combed. The product will eventually sustain damage as a result of this.

Two distinct fur types that combine durability and beauty are karakul and swakara. They both originate from sheep that have undergone special breeding, and each variety has unique qualities. Karakul is a popular material for opulent clothing because of its loose curls and diverse patterns. Conversely, Swakara is prized for having curls that are more uniformly tight, giving it a sleeker, more contemporary appearance.

These furs are highly valued for their durability as well as their aesthetic appeal. Swakara and karakul are both sturdy materials that will not deteriorate with frequent use. These furs, whether they are used in coats, accessories, or decorative pieces, give any look or house a dash of warmth and refinement.

Think about the exact style and feel you want when deciding between karakul and swakara. Because each kind of fur has distinctive characteristics, it can fit into a variety of styles and tastes. Regardless of the option you select, you will be purchasing a piece of history and custom as these furs have been prized for generations.

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Elena Gromova

I have been involved in fashion design for over 15 years. For me, fabric is the foundation from which any outfit begins. I love experimenting with textures and colors, creating new looks and inspiring others. Here I talk about how to choose the perfect material for your wardrobe and how to care for your favorite things.

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Tkani-Furnitura.com
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