The increased popularity of knitting has brought a great deal of attention to natural fiber yarns. One of the most popular types of natural yarns is angora yarn, a fiber that is often sought after for its low micron count and halo-like fluffiness.

Angora wool is attained from angora rabbits. The process is quite simple and harmless. The fur is removed through a shearing process or by combing the loose hair off the animal.

Since angora rabbits can be bred in residential areas, it is absolutely possible that anyone can raise, spin and dye their own yarn. Keep in mind that these animals should be well taken care of, just like any household pet.

Finding and Making Angora Knitwear

Because it's not easy to raise your own angora rabbits, nor is it easy to comb, spin, or dye your own yarn, you can find a wide range of online and local stores that carry angora yarn for knitting. Some of these stores also offer handspun wool versus machine spun. This gives the yarn a more unique quality.

Angora knitwear is also available in a variety of stores, however, garments made from angora blends are much more common. This is mostly because angora wool 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.

Benefits of Angora Garments

If you're not irritated by fluffy angora yarn then you can reap all of its benefits. Angora is one, if not the, warmest yarn available. As a matter of 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 is just another characteristic that can be merited to the hollow fibers.

Because it is a natural fiber it can be hand-dyed to match 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.