Whether you're a seasoned knitter looking for new fibers to explore, or simply curious about these noble yet little-known materials, this article takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of these extraordinary animals and the use of their precious fibers in the art of knitting.

Yak: History and origin of the fiber

The yak(Bos grunniens) is a majestic bovid that inhabits the high plateaus of the Himalayas, Tibet, Mongolia and other mountainous regions of Central Asia. This imposing animal, reaching up to 2 meters at the withers and weighing between 500 and 1000 kg, is perfectly adapted to the extreme conditions of high altitudes, where oxygen is scarce and temperatures can drop drastically.

Domestication and cultural significance

The official domestication of the yak dates back to around 8 BC, carried out by the nomadic Qiang people on the Tibetan plateau. This people were instrumental in spreading domesticated yak and other aspects of their culture throughout the Central Asian region. However, research suggests that the process of domesticating wild yaks began much earlier, with evidence of trade dating from around 2800 to 2300 BC.

Although nomadic culture has declined in some Central Asian countries, it is still very much alive in other regions, notably Mongolia. For the nomadic peoples of these regions, the yak represents much more than a simple resource: it is at the heart of their way of life, providing food, transport, shelter and clothing.

Yak fibre: a precious resource

Yak wool comes from the animal's undercoat, a soft, insulating layer that develops beneath the coarser outer fur. This natural adaptation enables the yak to survive in environments where temperatures can drop well below zero.

Traditionally, yak fiber is harvested in spring, when the animal sheds naturally. Breeders delicately comb the animal to collect this precious undercoat without damaging it. This respectful harvesting method guarantees both the animal's well-being and the quality of the fiber obtained.

Yak wool is considered one of the world's most durable wools. It has been used for thousands of years by local populations to make warm clothing for extreme climates, accessories such as scarves and hats, and everyday items requiring thermal insulation.

Quiviut: History and origin of the fiber

Quiviut (or qiviut) is the soft fiber that comes from the undercoat of the musk ox (Ovibos moschatus), a majestic animal that lives in the cold regions of North America, Canada, Greenland and northern Europe. The term "quiviut" itself comes from the Inuktitut language, the mother tongue of the Inuit, where it refers to the muskox's soft undercoat.

History and conservation

The muskox has a long history in Arctic regions, but was nearly wiped out by over-hunting. The species was reintroduced to Alaska in 1935 after being hunted almost to extinction. This reintroduction helped preserve the species and, consequently, the precious fiber it produces.

Quiviut fiber was first spun commercially by an Alaskan economics professor in the 1930s, marking the beginning of its modern use. However, the traditional use of this fiber by indigenous peoples goes back much further.

Traditional use and cultural significance

For centuries, the Inuit and other aboriginal peoples have harvested quiviut during the moulting season. They combed the undercoat of musk oxen, hand-spun the fiber into yarn, then wove or knitted the yarn into garments essential to their survival in the harsh Arctic climate.

Quiviut garments were highly valued and considered a status symbol, due to the laborious process required to collect and transform the fibers. Quiviut has deep cultural significance, particularly in the traditional practices of the Inuit and other northern aboriginal peoples. Some garments made from quiviut yarn were worn for important events, such as hunting expeditions or spiritual rituals, reinforcing the bond between people and animals.

Decline and rebirth

With the advent of mass-produced fabrics and textiles, many indigenous peoples turned away from their traditional crafts in favor of synthetic alternatives. In addition, muskox populations were decimated by over-hunting during the colonial period, leading to a sharp drop in quiviut production.

However, the renaissance of quiviut yarn began in the late 20th century, with a growing interest in traditional craftsmanship and sustainable materials. Efforts to protect and manage muskox populations led to a resurgence in quiviut production, particularly in Alaska and Canada.

Animal comparison: Yak vs Muskox

Although yak and muskox share certain similarities as large mammals adapted to cold climates, they have significant differences that influence the characteristics of their respective fibers.

These differences in habitat, physiology and relationship with man have a direct impact on the availability and characteristics of their respective fibers, as we'll see in the next section.

Fiber comparison: Yak vs Quiviut

Both yak and quiviut fibers are exceptional, but they have distinct characteristics that make them unique and suitable for different types of knitting projects.

These differences in characteristics directly influence the use of these fibers in knitwear, and determine the types of projects for which they are best suited.

Using yak yarn for knitting

Yak wool is considered one of the most exceptional natural fibers for knitting, with several characteristics that make it particularly popular with knitters the world over.

Processing and preparation

Yak wool is obtained from the animal's undercoat, which is harvested mainly during the natural spring moult or by hand combing. After harvesting, the fiber undergoes several processing stages: cleaning to remove impurities, carding to align the fibers, spinning to create knitting yarn and eventually dyeing, although the natural color (generally brown-gray) is often preserved for authenticity.

Ideal knitting applications

Yak yarn is particularly suitable for knitting:

• Sweaters and cardigans: Its warmth and softness make it an ideal material for winter garments.
• Scarves and shawls: The softness of the fiber makes it perfect for accessories in direct contact with the skin.
• Hats and headbands: Its thermal insulation is ideal for accessories designed to protect the head from the cold.
• Socks: Its ability to regulate temperature and its comfort make it an excellent choice for quality socks.

Using quiviut for knitting

Quiviut is considered one of the world's most luxurious and exceptional natural fibers, offering knitters a unique experience and incomparable creative possibilities.

Processing and preparation

Quiviut is obtained from the undercoat of musk oxen, mainly during the natural spring moult or, in Inuit communities where traditional hunting is permitted, after the animal has been slaughtered. Processing quiviut involves meticulous cleaning, delicate carding, spinning, often by hand using traditional techniques, and sometimes dyeing, although the natural color is often preserved for authenticity.

Ideal knitting applications

The quiviut is particularly suitable for knitting:

• Luxury accessories: high-end scarves, shawls, gloves and hats
• Exceptional clothing: Lightweight but extremely warm sweaters and cardigans
• Collector's items: Knitted items with traditional Inuit motifs
• Fine lace: delicate, airy creations highlighting the finesse of the fiber

Tips for knitting with these exceptional fibers

Tips for yak wool

• Wooden or bamboo needles offer a better grip on this slippery fiber.
• Choose stitches that enhance the natural texture of the fiber
• For beginners, start with small projects such as headbands or mittens.
• Hand wash your creations with a mild detergent and dry flat.
• Store your books in an airtight bag with natural moth repellents

Tips for the quiviut

• Given its price, start with small projects to familiarize yourself with this fiber.
• Use thinner needles than those recommended for a denser, more durable knit.
• Avoid overly complex points for your first quiviut project
• Take advantage of its resistance to felting to create lace pieces that won't need blocking after each wash
• Keep even the smallest thread remnants for use in composite projects.

Conclusion

Yak wool and quiviut represent two of the most exceptional fibers available to passionate knitters. Each has unique characteristics that make it valuable and suitable for specific projects.

Yak wool, with its cashmere-like softness and superior durability, offers excellent value for money for those seeking an affordable luxury fiber. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for a wide variety of projects, from winter garments to delicate accessories.

Quiviut represents the ultimate in luxury in the world of natural fibers. Its incomparable softness, exceptional warmth and lightness make it a truly unique fiber, reserved for the most special projects and exceptional pieces.

These two fibers, derived from animals adapted to our planet's harshest climates, remind us of the richness and diversity of natural materials available for our art. They also connect us to the ancestral textile traditions of the nomadic peoples of Central Asia and the Inuit communities of the Arctic, adding a cultural and historical dimension to our creations.

Whether you choose to explore the warmth and durability of yak wool or indulge in the unique experience of quiviut, these exceptional fibers will enable you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that stand out for their quality, comfort and timeless beauty.