Hello yak friends,
I am writing to share some information regarding yak fiber characteristics and current market pricing. As many of you know, yak is a popular luxury fiber highly valued by spinners and knitters. However, because of its premium status, consumers have very high-quality expectations to match the high price point.
Price Breakdown
While yak is worth more than sheep wool, it is important to remember that raw, combed fiber fetches a significantly lower price than processed fiber. Below is a breakdown of current market rates, including my observations on retail trends:
- Raw Yak Wool (Bulk): Typically $5–$10 per kg ($2.27–$4.55 per pound).
- De-Haired Yak Top (Processed): While some sources list various prices, I currently see this retailing at approximately $4.69/oz ($75.04/pound) for clean, de-haired, undyed, and ready-to-spin fiber.
- Yak Yarn (Skeins): Prices often range from $25–$100 per 100g (approx. 3.5 oz) depending on the market and whether the yarn is hand-dyed.
- Specialty Blends: Blends with silk or other luxury fibers often start at $12.99/oz.
Factors Influencing Price
- Processing: Whether the fiber is raw, de-haired (guard hairs removed), carded, or spun.
- Quality: Micron count and fiber fineness.
- Blends: Inclusion of Merino, silk, or cotton.
- Form: Whether it is roving, top, or yarn, and if it has been hand-dyed.
- Brand & Retailer: Differences between Etsy sellers, independent yarn stores, and high-end brands.
Suggestions for Yak Owners
It is important to note that the figures above are mostly retail prices. Fiber straight from the animal requires significant labor and specialized milling, which can be difficult to find. If you are interested in selling fiber, I suggest the following:
1. Select for Quality: Focus on a few animals with high-quality down.
2. Maintenance: Keep animals healthy and out of the mud before combing. Healthy animals produce strong fiber, and clean pastures result in less vegetable matter.
3. Handling: Ensure your animals are comfortable in the chute and during the combing process.
4. Target Standards: Fiber that is clean, strong, and long (1–2 inches) with minimal guard hair is the easiest to sell.
In my experience, local interest varies; some areas prefer fiber for spinning, while others prefer finished yarns. If you plan to work with a local yarn store, remember that they cannot pay retail prices for your fiber, as they must maintain a margin that remains accessible to their customers.
Yak fiber is a labor of love, and taking the time to understand the fiber arts industry will help you find the best path for your harvest.
Best regards,
Kat Tylee
Little Hawk Yarns, LLC www.littlehawkyarns.com Instagram @littlehawkyarns info@littlehawkyarns.com