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.

Angora rabbits can be bred in residential areas, so it is absolutely possible for everyone to raise, spin and dye their own yarn. Keep in mind, though 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 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. This is mostly because angora wool 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.

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 due to the hollow strand of angora fiber. 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 also the result of 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. Nevertheless, angora yarn is also one of the most esthetically pleasing yarns.