Confused by ply and gauge when shopping for cashmere? We break it down—2-ply, 4-ply, and 8-ply sweaters explained—so you know which knit will suit your wardrobe best.
When shopping for luxury cashmere, you’ll often come across terms like 2-ply, 4-ply, and even 8-ply. But what do these numbers really mean? At Billie Todd, we believe in demystifying cashmere so you can choose with confidence—and wear your sweaters for decades.
What Does Ply Mean in Cashmere?
Ply refers to the number of individual yarns twisted together to make the strand that is knitted into your garment. Think of it as the sweater’s DNA. A 2-ply yarn uses two strands twisted together; 4-ply uses four; 8-ply uses eight, and so on.
- 2-Ply: Lightweight, breathable, ideal for layering and year-round wear.
- 4-Ply: Medium weight, cozy yet versatile, perfect for autumn and winter staples.
- 8-Ply: Heavyweight, luxurious, made for true cold weather or as an heirloom piece.
And What About Gauge?
Gauge measures the number of stitches per inch. A higher gauge means a finer, lighter knit; a lower gauge means a denser, chunkier fabric. Ply and gauge work together—an 8-ply knit at a low gauge creates a chunky, substantial cardigan like our Bruce Shawl, while a 2-ply high-gauge crewneck feels featherlight yet warm.
Ply & Gauge Comparison
| Ply | Gauge | Warmth | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Ply | High (12–14) | Light | Layering, spring/fall, office wear |
| 4-Ply | Medium (7–10) | Medium | Everyday winter sweater, versatile staple |
| 8-Ply | Low (5–7) | Heavy | Cold climates, heritage pieces, statement knits |
Which Ply Should You Choose?
If you want a year-round layer, choose a 2-ply knit like our Classic Crew. For a do-it-all winter sweater, 4-ply pieces such as our Sport Crew strike the balance. And when you’re ready for a statement heirloom, the 8-ply Bruce Shawl is the ultimate in Scottish cashmere craftsmanship.
FAQs
Is higher ply always better?
Not necessarily. Higher ply means thicker and warmer, but not “better.” It depends on the climate, season, and how you like to layer.
Does gauge affect durability?
Yes—lower gauges (chunkier knits) tend to be more robust, while higher gauges (fine knits) offer elegance and drape but require more care.
Final Word
Whether you’re investing in a lightweight crew or a heavyweight shawl cardigan, knowing your ply and gauge ensures you’ll choose the right piece for your lifestyle. At Billie Todd, all of our sweaters are knit in Scotland with Todd & Duncan yarn, washed in Loch Leven water, and finished to last generations.
