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Angora Knitwear: Don't Worry about Cold Winter Days

by Loreto Marquez

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 by combing or shearing angora rabbits, a very harmless process that helps fur.

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

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 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 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 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 the result of the hollow strand of angora fiber. The hollow chamber acts as an insulating element which another reason why angora yarn is ideal for colder climates.

Angora yarn is also light and airy. In fact, if you have ever touched angora wool, you will have noticed that it almost feels like a cloud. This can also be accredited 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. Nevertheless, angora yarn is also one of the most esthetically pleasing yarns.

ANGORA YARN offers a wide range of angora products. You can find angora sweaters made from 100% angora yarns. You'll also find angora knitting yarns in a large variety of beautiful colors, ideal for any type of knitting project.

Published April 20th, 2010

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