Angora Knitwear is Ideal for Colder Climates
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. This type of yarn has been revered for its low micron count, halo (fluffiness) and warm nature for years.
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.
Angora Knitwear for You
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 stores even offer handspun wool which is far better than the common machine spun yarn.
Angora knitwear is also available in a variety of stores, however, garments made from angora blends are much more common. You see, angora wool has significant halo, which can be bothersome to people with allergies.
Angora blends include angora, sheep's wool, and acrylic fibers. The purpose of these blends is to help the angora fiber stay in place and therefore reduce the fluffiness may irritate some people.
Angora Garments and Their Benefits
If you're not irritated by fluffy angora yarn then you can reap all of its benefits. One of the biggest benefits is that it is seven times warmer than traditional sheep's wool making it one of the warmest yarns available.
This characteristic is due to the hollow strand of angora fiber. The hollow chamber acts as an insulating element, an aspect that is much needed in colder climates.
Angora yarn is also light and airy, a characteristic that is noticeable simple by touching the fibers. This is also the result of the hollow fibers.
Since it is a natural fiber, you can also dye angora yarn and knitwear to any color you can think of. Dyeing should be done with the cold-dye method and not with boiling water because natural fibers tend to felt with hot water.
Angora is not only a very versatility product, but also a very beautiful one.
ANGORA YARN offers a wide range of angora products such as angora sweaters and accessories all of which are made from 100% angora yarns. You can also find angora knitting yarns in a large variety of colors that are ideal for any type of knitting project.
Published April 20th, 2010
Filed in Hobby