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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 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, making it possible for anyone 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

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 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, it is more likely that you will find garments that come from a blend of angora and other yarns. 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.

The Benefits of Angora Garments

If fluffy angora yarn doesn't bother you 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 due to 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, 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 any color you'd like. Dyeing should be done with the cold-dye method instead of messing with boiling water, as natural fibers tend to felt with hot water.

The versatility of this product is one of its most attractive features, however, it is also a very beautiful yarn.

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 different colors, all you need for your next knitting project.

Published April 20th, 2010

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