I decided to go to the very basics and introduce different wool and yarn types. Today let’s talk about angora wool. Did you know it comes from an angora rabbit? Most people think angora is yarn of some goat or sheep. No way. Angora yarn is produced from downy coat of this adorable rabbit!

angora_rabbit

Angora wool can only be spun from the hair of Angora rabbit while yarn made from Angora goat is called mohair.

English, French, Satin, Giant and German types of Angora rabbits are most popular ones. Of course there are many other breeds that differ in color and quality of fiber. Angora rabbits are grown and fur produced in Europe, China, United States and Chile. They are being harvested up to three times a year by plucking, shearing, or collection of the molting fur.

Angora wool yarn is soft, silky and has thin fibers. The fibers are also hollow, this is why products made from angora wool are warmer and lighter and have this characteristic floating feel. Because of being a warm yarn and having short fibers, angora is often blended with other wool types, for example lambs wool or cashmere wool. It wouldn’t be possible to wear a garment made of 100% angora – it is very warm.

Angora is often considered a luxurious yarn reflecting complexity of the harvesting process and small number of producers. Blending angora with other wool types not only diminishes the softness and fluffiness of a garment, but also price. Yarns made for commercial knitting usually use 30-50% of angora. Angora rabbits produce fiber in a variety of colors: white, beige, brown, and grey, black.

Angora wool can be used in manu different ways. All sorts of apparel (e.g. angora wool sweaters, jackets, skirts, scarves) or home textile items (e.g. angora wool throws and blankets) can be made, knitting yarns produced, and it is also used for felting.

Here are some items made from angora wool or a blend:

angora_cardigan  angora_girl_dress  angora_coat

In my next post I will write about merino wool. See ya!

 

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