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Yes Helping Hand Cashmere: Himalayan Luxury Made by Hand

Yes Helping Hand|October 22, 2024
5 min Read|
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Yes Helping Hand Cashmere: Himalayan Luxury Made by Hand

Grade A & B Himalayan cashmere at 70% less than luxury brands. Our cashmere comes directly from Nepal's high mountains, made by skilled artisans who preserve traditions while creating modern luxury.


What Is Cashmere?

Cashmere is the soft undercoat fiber from Himalayan goats. These goats grow two layers of hair - a coarse outer layer and an incredibly soft inner layer that becomes cashmere.

Key Facts About Cashmere: 

  • Comes from goats, not sheep 
  • Only the soft undercoat is used
  • Goats naturally shed this fiber each spring 
  • Takes 4-6 goats to make one sweater 
  • High-quality cashmere is called pashmina
Our Cashmere FactDetail
Source AnimalHimalayan goats (Chyangra)
Fiber CollectionNatural spring molting season
Goats Needed4-6 goats per sweater
Annual Yield200-300 grams per goat
Best Quality NamePashmina (Persian for "wool")
Cashmere Quality We HaveUltra Premium (Pashmina) Grade A, Grade B, and minimal Grade C.

Many people wonder about the difference between various cashmere types. Understanding cashmere grades and micron measurements helps you make informed decisions about quality and value.  

Our Cashmere Fibers Sourcing

Our cashmere comes from three main regions in Nepal's mountains. Higher altitude means finer, softer fiber because goats grow thicker undercoats in extreme cold.  Nepal's unique position in the Himalayas creates ideal conditions for producing some of the world's finest cashmere.  

Our Source Regions:

Mustang District - Main source, 3,000-5,000m altitude

• Manang Region - Secondary source, 3,500-4,500m altitude

• Dolpo Region - Ultra-premium grades, 4,000m+ altitude.

Other than Nepal we also source from the Himalayas of India, but rest assured all the cashmere are sourced from Himalayas.

RegionAltitudeFiber QualityAccess SeasonSpecial Features
Mustang3,000-5,000m14.36 microns avgApril-October131,000+ goats, traditional herding
Manang3,500-4,500mPremium gradesApril-OctoberCooperative partnerships
Dolpo4,000m+Ultra-fine 12-15 micronsMay-SeptemberExtreme altitude, rarest quality

Why Our Cashmere Is Special - Himalayan Cashmere

Cashmere at Yes helping hand comes from the highest mountains in Nepal, where extreme cold causes goats to produce the softest, finest fiber. We work directly with herders and use traditional methods.

What Makes Us Different: 

  • Direct sourcing from 3,000+ meter altitudes
  • Traditional hand-spinning and weaving 
  • Zero chemicals or artificial treatments 
  • Fair wages for all herders and artisans 
  • 800+ people employed in our program

When comparing options, it's important to understand natural versus synthetic cashmere. Our commitment to 100% natural fibers ensures you receive authentic quality that synthetic alternatives simply cannot match.  

Quality FactorOur StandardIndustry AverageYour Benefit
Fiber Thickness12-16 microns14-19 micronsSofter feel, better comfort
Fiber Length40mm+32-40mmStronger, longer-lasting
Processing Time14-16 hours/piece4-6 hoursSuperior craftsmanship
Defect RateLess than 1%5-8%Higher quality guarantee

Our Cashmere Quality Grades

We offer different grades of cashmere to match your needs and budget. All our cashmere is 100% authentic and ethically sourced.

Our Three Quality Levels: 

  • Ultra-Premium Pashmina - Finest possible quality 
  • Grade A Cashmere - Our main collection 
  • Premium Cashmere - High quality, accessible pricing
GradeFiber SizeSource AltitudePrice RangeBest For
Ultra-Premium Pashmina12-14 microns4,000m+$200+Special occasions, gifts
Grade A Cashmere12-16 microns3,000m+$155Daily luxury, main wardrobe
Premium Cashmere16-19 microns2,500m+$100First cashmere, budget-conscious

Seasonal Fiber Collection Process

Our ethical cashmere collection follows the natural rhythm of Himalayan goats. We only collect fiber during the spring molting season when goats naturally shed their winter undercoat.

Spring Collection Season (April-May): 

  • Goats naturally begin shedding their winter undercoat as temperatures warm 
  • Herders gently comb loose fiber using traditional methods 
  • No cutting, pulling, or stressing of animals during collection 
  • Each goat yields 200-300 grams of raw cashmere annually 
  • Quality assessment happens immediately at collection sites

Why Spring Collection Matters: 

  • Animals are ready to shed - no discomfort or stress 
  • Fiber quality is at peak softness and length 
  • Respects natural goat behavior and biology
  • Maintains traditional herding practices 
  • Ensures the highest grade cashmere fiber
Collection MonthGoat BehaviorFiber QualityCollection Method
AprilEarly shedding beginsPremium quality availableGentle hand combing
MayPeak shedding seasonMaximum fiber yieldTraditional collection tools
June-MarchNo collection periodGoats growing winter coatRest season, no harvesting

Cashmere Care Instructions

Proper care helps your cashmere last 10+ years. Nepal's climate requires special attention during the monsoon season when humidity is high.  For comprehensive washing, storing, and maintenance guidance, visit our detailed cashmere care guide, where we cover everything from removing stains to preventing pilling.  

Basic Care Rules: 

  • Hand wash in cold water with mild soap 
  • Never wring or twist - gently squeeze water out 
  • Dry flat on a towel, away from direct sunlight 
  • Store folded, never hung 
  • Use cedar blocks to prevent moths
Care SectionHow OftenNepal Climate TipWhy Important
WashingAfter 2-3 wearsAvoid monsoon humidityMaintains softness
DryingAfter each washUse dehumidifier if neededPrevents mold/mildew
StorageOff-seasonBreathable cotton bagsPrevents moth damage
BrushingAfter each wearGentle, one directionRemoves pills, maintains texture

Performance & Durability of Himalayan Cashmere

Our cashmere performs better than regular wool and lasts longer than machine-made alternatives. Traditional hand-processing creates stronger, more durable fabric.

Performance Benefits: 

  • 8 times warmer than regular wool 
  • Breathes better than synthetic materials 
  • Gets softer with proper care over time 
  • Naturally resists odors and stains 
  • Maintains shape after repeated washing

Unlike synthetic cashmere alternatives, our natural Himalayan fibers provide superior performance that only improves over the years.  

Performance FactorOur CashmereRegular WoolSynthetic Alternative
Warmth-to-Weight8x warmerBaseline3x warmer
BreathabilityExcellentGoodPoor
Durability10+ years3-5 years1-2 years
Softness Over TimeImprovesStays sameDecreases
Shape RetentionExcellentGoodFair

We offer authentic Grade A Himalayan cashmere at 70% less than luxury brands. Direct sourcing and our social mission model let us pass savings to customers while paying fair wages. Understanding why cashmere prices vary so dramatically helps you appreciate the exceptional value we offer.  

Why Our Prices Are Fair: 

  • No middleman markup - direct from source 
  • Social enterprise model, not maximum profit 
  • Traditional methods cost less than industrial processing 
  • Fair trade practices benefit everyone in the chain 
  • Volume production keeps individual costs down
ComparisonLuxury BrandsOur PriceYour Savings
Grade A Sweater$600-800$155$445-645 (70%)
Premium Shawl$400-600$120$280-480 (70%)
Pashmina Scarf$200-300$60$140-240 (70%)
Quality LevelOften Grade B is sold as AAuthentic Grade A or Grade B mentionedBetter quality + savings

Environmental Impact - Less Carbon FootPrint

Our traditional methods have a 70% lower carbon footprint than industrial processing. We use no chemicals, minimal water, and all materials are biodegradable.

Our Green Practices: 

  • Hand-processing uses 70% less energy 
  • Natural dyes from Himalayan plants only 
  • Rain-fed grazing, no irrigation needed 
  • Zero chemical treatments or synthetic materials 
  • 100% biodegradable packaging
Environmental FactorOur MethodIndustrial MethodEnvironmental Benefit
Carbon Footprint70% lowerHigh energy useSignificant CO₂ reduction
Water UsageMinimal (rainfall)High (processing)Water conservation
Chemical UsageNoneSignificantNo soil/water pollution
Biodegradability100%Synthetic blends = 0%No landfill waste

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can your prices be so much lower than those of luxury brands? 

A: Direct sourcing eliminates 30-40% markup. We work directly with herders and our own artisans, passing savings to customers while ensuring fair wages.

Q: What's the difference between cashmere and pashmina? 

A: Pashmina is the finest grade of cashmere (12-15 microns) from the highest altitudes. All pashmina is cashmere, but not all cashmere qualifies as pashmina.

Q: How long will my cashmere last? 

A: With proper care, 10+ years. Our traditional hand-processing creates stronger fabric than machine methods.

Q: Is your cashmere really 100% authentic? 

A: Yes. We test every batch for fiber diameter, length, and purity. We guarantee 100% authentic Himalayan cashmere in every product.

Q: Do you use ethical practices?

A: Absolutely. We collect fiber during the natural molting season (no stress to goats), pay fair wages, and support 180+ artisans and their families.


About Our Organization: Yes Helping Hands

Founded in 2011 by Dinesh Kumar Thapa, Yes Helping Hands Organization began with a personal tragedy that became a mission of hope. What started as support for two deaf individuals has grown into an organization empowering hundreds across Nepal and beyond.

Our Founding Story: 

  • Founded in 2011 in Pokhara, Nepal, after a personal tragedy inspired change 
  • Started with two deaf artisans - Balika and Balmaya - living below the poverty line
  • Expanded from a small shop to an international social enterprise
  • Now operates 22+ locations, including international outreach programs
  • Transformed from helping a few individuals to supporting entire communities

Our "Each One, Teach One" Program: 

  • Signature educational initiative where artisans become teachers 
  • Visitors learn traditional Nepali handicrafts from our skilled artisans 
  • Every class fee supports education for children of single mothers and differently-abled individuals
  • Cultural exchange promotes understanding while generating sustainable income
  • Hands-on learning experiences that create lasting impact for all participants

Our Artisan Training Program: 

  • 6-month comprehensive skill development courses 
  • Focus on single mothers and differently-abled individuals 
  • Traditional hand-spinning and weaving techniques 
  • Quality control and finishing methods 
  • Fair wage employment upon completion

Artisan Empowerment Components: 

  • Free training with food allowance during the learning period 
  • Modern tools combined with traditional techniques
  • Ongoing skill advancement opportunities

Ready to Experience the YHH Difference?

Premium Himalayan Cashmere & Handwoven Products

Browse our collection of premium Himalayan cashmere and handwoven products that combine authentic luxury with meaningful purpose. Every piece represents 14-16 hours of traditional craftsmanship by skilled artisans while supporting mountain communities with the world's finest natural fiber.

When you choose YHH cashmere, you're not just buying Grade A quality from 3,000+ meter altitudes - you're joining a movement that empowers 180+ artisans, preserves ancient Himalayan weaving traditions, and builds sustainable communities one handcrafted garment at a time.

Shop our authentic cashmere collection now and experience luxury that transforms lives while delivering the unmatched softness and warmth only true Himalayan cashmere can provide.

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