In short
- Hand knitting creates a living, elastic fabric that drapes softly.
- A maker can work with the finest, most delicate yarns that machines struggle with.
- A handmade piece is often one of a kind and can be made to your measure.
- You can spot handwork by its gently irregular stitches and careful finishing.
Two cardigans may look alike. In your hands, the difference between hand and machine knitting is obvious.
The fabric
A machine knits with perfectly even tension; a hand with a natural, slightly alive tension. That makes hand-knit fabric softer, more elastic and better at draping on the body. It is especially visible in fluffy mohair: stitches do not crush the halo, so the piece stays airy.
The yarn
Industrial machines prefer strong, even thread. Fine kid mohair with silk is delicate; by hand you can do what is hard on a fast machine: large airy stitches, ruffles, intricate cuffs.
The details
- Ruffles and flared sleeves, as on our Coral, Fuchsia and Emerald designs.
- Hand-sewn buttons: pearl, crystal, star-shaped.
- Neat edges and seams, without overlocked edges.
Shop the edit
“Rosie” Baby Mohair & Merino Cardigan, Fuchsia · $212.50
Kid Mohair & Silk Flared-Sleeve Cardigan, Coral · $175
Kid Mohair & Silk Cardigan, Blush Pink · $175Individuality
A handmade piece is often one of a kind, and it can be ordered in another colour or size. For us that is routine, via a message on Etsy.
Longevity
A well hand-knitted piece in quality yarn lasts for years. It can be mended, unravelled and re-knitted; the yarn keeps its value.
How to recognise handmade
- Look at the stitches in the light: slight irregularity is the mark of a hand.
- Check the seams: handmade pieces are often joined with knitted seams rather than overlocking.
- Ask about the fibre and the hours of work; a maker will always tell you.
Why handmade costs more is explained in a separate guide.
FAQ
Does hand knitting last longer?
With the same yarn, usually yes: gentle tension wears the fibre less, and the piece is easy to repair.
Are there machine-knit mohair pieces?
Yes, but mostly in thicker mohair blended with synthetics. The finest kid mohair is most often knitted by hand.
Can I order a handmade piece to my measurements?
Yes; at AuraHome most designs can be knitted to order. Message us on Etsy.
