If you've been left out of the loop you may not have noticed that knitting has become a very popular trend in the past few years. Online and physical yarn stores are popping up everywhere, not to mention the fact that novelty and traditional yarns have become readily available in a variety of textures, thickness, and colors.

One type of yarn that has become quite popular is angora yarn. If you know anything about angora wool then you won't confuse it with mohair which comes from Angora goats. The similarity in names often causes a confusion and people believe they are purchasing one product when in all actuality they are buying something completely different.

Angora Wool - Things you may not know about this yarn

Angora yarn is so highly valued because it has a low micron count. What is a micron? A micron is the measurement used to express the diameter of a wool fiber. The lower the micron count the finer the wool.

As a point of reference, merino wool ranges from 10-25 microns. Mohair has a micron count of 25-45 microns. However, when referring to angora wool the micron count maintains itself between 12 or 16 microns.

Angora wool is also noted for its halo or fluffiness. Therefore, it is the fluffy angora yarn that gives garments its light, downy appearance. As a matter of fact, another reason so many people covet angora wool is because it is one of the warmest types of yarn available.

Angora strands are hollow which is the reason why it has the insulating properties that make it seven times warmer than sheep's wool.

Some people may find the halo bothersome or inconvenient, especially if they have allergies. However, angora can be spun with other wools. This will decrease its softness and price, but makes it more versatile.

In fact, it may be easier to get hold of angora knitwear that also contains some percentage of other wools, even acrylic fibers. This also goes for angora sweaters, mittens, scarves and caps, all of which are made from 100% angora wool.

Fortunately, 100% angora yarn can still be purchased if you are interested in making your own garments. Since it is a natural fiber, you can dye angora wool with a variety of different dyes. You can also purchase dyed wool.

Angora Rabbits

Similar to sheep's wool, the angora wool is removed directly from the rabbit by one of two processes. The rabbit will be either sheared or combed to remove the wool. Shearing produces cut fibers while combing insures a long, uncut strand.

Unlike larger animals, rabbits can be kept in residential areas. This is why so many people decided to raise their own animals and spin their own yarn. However, this does require a certain level of investment, both in time and money.