Natural karakul: what it is made of and how to properly care for fur?

Natural karakul fur is a special kind distinguished by its opulent texture and resilience. From ancient times, this fur from the karakul sheep has been highly valued, particularly for use in traditional apparel and accessories.

Karakul, which is made from the pelts of young lambs, is renowned for having glossy, tightly curled hair. In addition to being gorgeous, the fur is very warm, which makes it a popular option in colder regions. However, karakul needs proper care to maintain its best appearance.

There are a few crucial steps involved in maintaining karakul fur. This fur’s natural beauty and softness can be preserved for many years with the correct care techniques. To ensure karakul’s longevity and appeal, it is important to know how to store and treat it.

What type of fabric is this?

The skin of karakul sheep lambs is called karakul; it is taken off at various points after birth and dressed in a particular manner.

The material originates from Uzbekistan. In honor of the Uzbek city, the fur’s very name is translated as "Black Lake."

The luxurious natural karakul fur is made from the pelts of young lambs, especially those from Central Asia. It has a unique, tightly curled texture. To preserve the beauty and longevity of karakul fur, proper care entails gentle cleaning, avoiding excessive moisture, and storing it in a cool, dry place.

History of origin

Karakul sheep have gained popularity for breeding in Central Asia because they are unassuming and easily adapt to the desert climate. The most ancient fur type was karakul, which humans first started dressing with. It was first mentioned in the eighth century, and in the tenth century, geographers wrote a description of the sheepskin trade.

Karakul was admired by renowned explorers Marco Polo and Afanasy Nikitin. In Europe, the fur was well-known and frequently sold. The material was brought to Russia in the 17th century.

Seventy thousand sheep were driven to Iran and forty thousand sheep were transported to Afghanistan when Uzbekistan joined the Soviet Union. This signaled the start of the diversification of karakul breeds.

In the 1970s and 1980s of the 20th century, karakul production was established; however, a crisis ensued, leading to the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. Without any authority, the Central Asian breeders destroyed breeding sheep and sold all of the skins they could find, with no intention of preserving the breed. Prices started to decline as supply shrank. Karakul’s popularity declined.

Designer Ralph Lauren developed an interest in this fur at the start of the twenty-first century and included it in his apparel line. Following in his footsteps, other fashion designers added karakul to their latest models. This has led to a second surge in interest in the material.

Fabric composition and its properties

Every skin that has been removed has a distinct pattern. The fur has curls in a range of sizes and forms. The fabric itself is thin and velvety to the touch.

Types of fabric

Main varieties of karakul:

The best possible fur. It is more heat-saving and resistant to wear. Because of the short cut fur, it is easy to wear and maintain.

Lamb hides, no more than a month old. smooth and slightly velvety surface. Elastic and loose, curls come in a variety of shapes.

The biggest, heaviest skins possible. It is the most resistant to wear because of its thickness. It is highly reflective and has a wave-like pattern of curls.

More popularly called "Swakara". Simple in their approach. Parallel rollers cause a ribbed pattern.

Pros and cons of the fabric

Advantages:

• Unique pattern – each item is individual;
• Plasticity of the material – you can gather the fabric in folds and easily model the shape of the product;
• Fineness of fur – the coat does not make you look fat or spoil your figure;
• Acceptable price for most breeds.

Drawbacks:

• Due to its fineness, it will not keep you warm in severe frosts;
• You need to pay close attention to the breed – some species can last no more than 3-4 seasons.

What standards are used in manufacturing? What is taken into account in them?

Skins need to meet the requirements outlined in GOST 2865-68 by:

• Be removed in one layer, from head to tail and legs.
• Have no holes, tears, or snatches from the edges.
• Be thoroughly cleaned of any remaining meat, tendons and fat, free of ear cartilage, legs and tail;

The same thing is described in GOST 8748-70, which also includes a mention of the preservation conditions:

• Skins must be preserved by pickling or dry-salting.
• When dry-salting, they must be thoroughly degreased, cleaned of dirt and blood, the hair roots must not be damaged, they must be straightened evenly.
• When pickling, they must be pickled with bread kvass, have a white flesh side, and be straightened evenly. The fur must be cleaned of all types of contaminants.

For what purposes can this fabric be used??

Astrakhan fur is used to make fur coats, but fur is also used to make vests and short fur coats. in addition to fur collars, hats, gloves, and shawls.

Natural karakul is a high-end fur distinguished by its distinct texture and resilience. Because it is made from the pelts of young lambs, it is an extremely valuable and delicate material. It requires proper care to keep its beauty.

Karakul needs to be gently aired out to preserve its natural oils and brushed frequently to get rid of dirt. To avoid damage, it must be kept out of direct sunlight and kept in a cool, dry place. A breathable garment bag is advised for extended storage.

Natural karakul provides warmth and elegance for years when properly maintained. This fur will remain a treasured addition to any wardrobe with proper care.

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