Why Water Matters in Cashmere: Loch Leven and the River Teviot in Scotland

Cashmere quality is often discussed in terms of softness, ply, or fiber length—but one of the most important factors is rarely mentioned: water.

In Scotland, two natural water sources play a critical role in how cashmere looks, feels, and lasts: Loch Leven and the River Teviot.

Each contributes at a different stage of the cashmere process, and together they help define the character of true Scottish cashmere.

Stage One: Yarn Preparation at Loch Leven

Our cashmere yarns are spun and prepared using soft water from Loch Leven by Todd & Duncan, one of the world’s most respected cashmere spinners.

Soft water is free from heavy mineral content that can damage delicate fibers. During washing and spinning, it allows cashmere fibers to open gently—preserving elasticity, softness, and strength.

This stage determines how the yarn will perform for years, not just how it feels at first touch.

(Loch Leven, Kinross, Scotland)

Stage Two: Garment Finishing in the River Teviot

Once knitted, garments are washed and finished in Hawick using water drawn from the River Teviot.

This final wash allows the knit structure to relax and the fibers to bloom naturally, creating a soft yet substantial hand feel. Hard water can strip fibers and dull texture. Soft Scottish water enhances softness while maintaining resilience and shape.

This step is where a knitted piece becomes a finished garment.

(River Teviot, Hawick, Scotland)

Why Soft Water Matters in Cashmere

Soft Scottish water:

• Protects delicate cashmere fibers
• Enhances softness without chemical treatment
• Preserves elasticity and shape
• Contributes to garments that improve with wear

It’s one of the least visible, but most important, elements of luxury cashmere.

From Fiber to Finished Knit

Loch Leven and the River Teviot serve different purposes, but together they form a continuous thread—from yarn preparation to final finishing.

It’s a reminder that true luxury is never the result of a single step, but of thoughtful decisions made at every stage.