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DebbieD Nov 20, 2005

Hi all, I'm new to the board.  I actually make bears from recycled fur, and I've made a few out of regular synthetic furs, but I've been looking at trying my hand at mohair. 

I dutifully browsed through the mohair selections at Edinburgh, and of course Intercal...and now I'm  :wacko:!!!  For instance, I really liked http://www.intercaltg.com/colors/finish370SC.html this type of fur, but what does S/C stand for?  What do the numbers mean?  Is it a code for the colour, like what they do with embroidery floss?

What are the differences between kid mohair, and say alpaca??  Do I need to wash the mohair before I can turn it into bears?  Or can I cut my patterns out and start sewing straight away? 

Thanks for any info 

kraftyladies Nov 20, 2005

Hi Debbie,

The numbers  like that one 370 S/c is the type of finish, it is their curly finish, it just has a really wavy texture.  And that one is really nice for bigger bears because of the length.  That has always been one of my favorite type of theirs.  The colors have numbers too, but the color name is usually listed with that number.  I have never washed the mohair before I have used it, unless it was one that I dyed.  I have never used kid mohair, but I do know that it is alot softer than the regular mohair, maybe someone can give you more info on that.  Alpaca is a little softer that regular mohair too.  To get a good prices to start with mohair, visit Intercals End pieces page.  Use can get 1/4 or 1/3 yd pieces at really good prices and that way would not have to invest a lot to find out what styles you like to work with.
I hope this helps!
Susan

shantell Nov 20, 2005

Hi Debbie,

First of all welcome to Teddy Talk...it's a great place to learn loads of bear stuff...and make wonderful friends.

If you go to the top of the page and select "Intercal Features" this will take you to the page that lists all of the colors and mohair qualities with a description of each.  The first section is the colors with their associated number.  Scroll a little farther down and it will then list the different qualities with a brief description such as 5/8" medium density etc. etc.

I think...and someone else may be better at explaining this but the differences in mohair such as Kid would be from goat versus Alpaca would be from the animal alpaca (resembles a llama) both are incredibily soft.   This very question may be answered in the "Features" section.

I get lost on the Intercal website myself often...so don't feel alone by any means...and Johnna the person you get when you call or email is VERY helpful. 

I would also recommend spending the $15 for samples...it just makes it so much easier then ordering something and figuring out you don't like it.  A good recommendation given to me by our dear Shelli early on. 

Have fun...and again Welcome  :rose:

Shantell

DebbieD Nov 20, 2005

Thank you so much for your help, and tips!  I'm amazed at the rainbow of choices available, so I can see those little sample cards being a good investment.

Thanks for the welcome as well 

Deb Nov 20, 2005

Debbie ~

I agree with Shantell ~ best thing to do is order samples.  You really have to see and feel them to know what your ordering.  (I can spend whole evenings going through my samples!)

Beyond that, I think that:
C = Curly
M = Matted
S = S Finish
H = Heirloom Finish
V = Vintage Finish
T = Tipped
TD = Tye-Dyed

The more you browse, the more it'll all connect.  Again, welcome to TT.

patsylakebears Nov 21, 2005

Welcome Debbie, this is a great site to get to know about diffrent aspects of bear making

matilda Nov 21, 2005

Gidday Debbie!!! :hug:
I cant help with your question, because I dont have the foggiest. Just wanted to say HI!!!         Matilda