Mohair for upholstery

Re: stellapathic's H&C link

Not only is mohair long-wearing, etc, it is so fire resistant it is what race-car seats were covered with before Nomex et al were developed.

It is possible to have a reaction to wool but not mohair (or the other way around), because wool is from sheep while mohair is from Angora goats (angora is from Angora rabbits, go figure).

Most wool-allergies are not (allergies), but intolerance of the texture -- if you get a RASH or histamine reaction like watering eyes or yikes! trouble breathing -- STAY AWAY.

Some true allergies are actually to dyes or other processing agents, so if only one or occassional garments get to you, consider that. No kidding, my dad could not wear RED plaid shirts!

But if wool (or mohair) just 'drives you crazy' and makes you itch, it likely is the texture or coarseness. So you can experiment with different materials and finishes for different decorating applications (consider whether much of your skin ever contacts the sofa cover, for example).

Before committing to a expensive project like that channel-back chairs-and-sofa set, buying a yard or two of the fabric and living with it seems a good idea. Tuck it over the chair you do sit in, etc. You can always turn it into throw-pillow covers to complement the upholstery -- or to give as gifts should you decide against the material!

PS, LOVE that chair! -- Xtal