When you think of fine wool or luxurious fur, you might think of Mongolian cashmere or Australian Merino. But in Northwest China, there is a hidden treasure that has been cherished for centuries and is now attracting the global fashion world’s attention—tibet lamb(Tan sheepskin).
What is Tibet lambskin? What Makes Unique?
Tibet lambskin(Tan Yang Lamb Fur) specifically refers to the pelt of lambs from the Tan sheep breed, a breed descended from Mongolian sheep, raised primarily in the Ningxia region of China. What sets it apart is its one-of-a-kind fleece pattern, formed naturally by lambs around 35 to 45 days old. It is renowned for the unique, naturally occurring wave pattern formed by its hair clusters, . It is recognized as one of the traditional “Five Treasures” of Ningxia.
Tibetan(Tan sheepskin) is identified by its signature, long ‘corkscrew’ fibre. silky tufts of hair that curl into 6 to 9 distinct, elegant waves. Unlike the tight curls of Karakul or the smooth surface of shearling, Tibet lambskin boasts a three-dimensional texture that is both visual and tactile. Its hairs are long, flexible, and rooted distinctly without tangling, giving it a lightweight feel while maintaining remarkable warmth.
🌊 Tibet lambskin vs Chekiang Lamb Skin
Tibet lambskin(Tan sheepskin) is most frequently compared to Chekiang Lamb Skin， as both are prized. The table below clearly outlines their key differences:
| Aspect | Tibet lambskin (Tan Yang Lamb Fur ) | Chekiang Lamb Skin |
|---|---|---|
| Breed Source | Tan Sheep (descendants of Mongolian sheep) | Hu Sheep |
| Shearing Time | Lambs at ~35-45 days old | Newborn lambs within 3 days |
| Key Appearance | : 6-9 clear, three-dimensional waves. | Silky Wave Pattern: Soft, natural waves with a silky luster. |
| Texture & Feel | Less underwool, clear non-matted roots, long & flexible hairs. | Fine and soft hairs, thin and lightweight leather base. |
| Primary Origin | Ningxia of china (e.g., Yinchuan, Yanchi, Zhongwei) | Jiangsu, Zhejiang of china (e.g., Hangzhou, Xiashi) |
The Artisan’s Touch: Craftsmanship Passed Down Through Generations
This fur isn’t just rare because of the sheep—it’s also about traditional craftsmanship. In 2008, the tanning techniques for Tibet lambskin (Tan Yang lamb fur) were recognized as part of China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The traditional process involves over 50 meticulous steps, from cleaning and softening to dyeing and finishing. Today, many artisans have adopted eco-friendly, salt-free composite tanning methods to enhance both sustainability and quality.
Primary Applications
Valued for being lightweight, warm, and uniquely patterned, Tibet lambskin(Tan Yang fur) is widely used in several fields:
👗Fashion & Apparel: Its most traditional use. Primarily for making fur coats, waistcoats, capes, and scarves. Garments are celebrated for their light weight and luxurious elegance. In recent years, contemporary designs featuring Tan Yang fur have graced runways like Paris Fashion Week.
🏠Home Furnishings: Often used to create bed blankets, mattress pads, cushions, and pillows, offering both warmth and decorative appeal.
👜Decorations & Crafts: Its distinctive fleece is utilized in handbags, slippers, and other fashion accessories, as well as various interior décor items.
Why It’s a Sustainable Choice
With an annual production of only around 250,000 pelts,Tibet lambskin is a rare, slow-fashion material. Raised in Ningxia’s semi-desert climate, Tan sheep are well-adapted to their environment, and local herders follow time-honored, ethical husbandry practices.
How to Identify Authentic Tibet lambskin(Tan Yang Lamb Fur)
- Look for the clear, natural wave pattern—each tuft should have multiple, well-defined waves.
- Notice the lightweight feel—it should be warm but not heavy.
- Check the base of the fur—the roots should be distinct, not matted or overly dense.
Bringing Tibet lambskin into Your Wardrobe
Caring for Tibet lambskin is simple:
- Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable cloth bag.
- Avoid compression to maintain its natural wave pattern.
- For cleaning, trust a professional furrier.
Tan Yang lamb fur is more than just a material—it’s a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or someone who appreciates unique textiles, this “soft gold from the East” offers a blend of tradition and modernity that’s worth exploring.
If you are interested in the specific tanning process of tibet lambskin or how to identify its quality grades, I can provide more detailed information.