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.

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 that these animals should be well taken care of, just like any household pet.

Angora Knitwear

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 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, it is more likely that you will find garments that come from a blend of angora and other yarns. You see, angora wool has significant halo, which 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'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. 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 just another characteristic that can be merited to 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.