The sudden interest in knitting has brought a great deal of attention to natural fiber yarns. One of the most popular types of natural yarns is angora yarn. This type of yarn is highly appealing because it has a low micron count and a halo-like fluffiness that can keep you warm during the cold winter months.
Angora wool is attained by combing or shearing angora rabbits, a very harmless process that helps fur.
Since angora rabbits can be bred in residential areas, it is absolutely possible that anyone can raise, spin and dye their own yarn. Do keep in mind, however, that these animals should be well taken care of – just like you would take care of your household pet.
Finding and Making Angora Knitwear
Not everyone is willing to raise their own rabbits, which is why you can find a wide range of online and local stores that carry angora yarn for knitting. Some of these stores even offer handspun wool which produces a higher quality yarn.
Angora knitwear is also available in a variety of stores, however, an angora blend that includes other types of yarn is much more common. You see, angora wool has significant halo, which can be bothersome to people with allergies.
Angora blends are often made of angora, acrylic fibers, and sheep’s wool. The purpose behind these blends is to help the angora fiber stay in place and therefore reduce the fluffiness that is what often causes problems in some people.
The Benefits of Angora Garments
If you do not mind fluffy angora yarn then you can reap all of its benefits. One of the biggest benefits is that angora is one of the warmest yarns available, in fact, it is seven times warmer than traditional sheep’s wool.
This characteristic is mostly due to the fact that the angora fiber is a hollow strand. The hollow chamber acts as an insulating element. This is also why angora yarn is ideal for colder climates.
Angora yarn is also light and airy, as a matter of fact, it feels like a billowy cloud. This can also be accredited to the hollow fibers.
Since it is a natural fiber, you can also dye angora yarn any color you’d like. Dyeing should be done using the cold-dye method in order to avoid possible felting when dyed in hot water.
The versatility of this product is one of its most attractive features, however, it is also a very beautiful yarn.
ANGORA YARN offers a wide range of angora products. You can find angora sweaters made from 100% angora yarns. You can also find angora knitting yarns in a large variety of different colors, all you need for your next knitting project.
- Loreto Marquez