Fabric Guide: What Is Angora Wool?

Cover Carded angora wool / Wool and yarn (1333x1000)

Fabric Guide: What Is Angora Wool?

Table of Contents

• What is Angora Wool?
• How is Angora Wool Made?
• What are the Benefits of Angora Wool?
• How to Care for Angora Wool?
• Is Angora Wool Sustainable?

What is Angora Wool?

Angora wool comes from the soft and fluffy fur of Angora rabbits. It is a luxury fiber that is prized for its softness, warmth, and lightness. The fiber is known for its halo effect, which gives it a fuzzy appearance.

Angora wool is often blended with other fibers such as wool or silk to improve its strength and durability. It is commonly used in high-end fashion garments, accessories, and home decor items.

How is Angora Wool Made?

Angora wool is made by harvesting the soft fur of Angora rabbits through a process called shearing. The rabbits are not harmed during the shearing process, which is typically done every three months.

After the fur is collected, it is sorted by length and quality. The longest and softest fibers are used for high-end products, while shorter fibers are used for less expensive items. The fiber is then cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn.

What are the Benefits of Angora Wool?

Angora wool has many benefits, including:

• Softness: Angora wool is incredibly soft, making it comfortable to wear against the skin.
• Warmth: Angora wool is a great insulator and is known for its warmth.
• Lightweight: Despite its warmth, angora wool is lightweight, making it ideal for layering.
• Hypoallergenic: Angora wool is hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin.
• Durable: When blended with other fibers, angora wool can be quite durable.

How to Care for Angora Wool?

Angora wool requires special care to maintain its softness and shape. Here are some tips for caring for angora wool:

• Hand wash: Angora wool should be hand washed in cool water using a gentle detergent.
• Do not wring: After washing, gently squeeze out the excess water and lay the garment flat to dry.
• Avoid heat: Angora wool should not be exposed to high heat, as it can cause the fibers to shrink or mat.
• Store carefully: To prevent damage, angora wool should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Is Angora Wool Sustainable?

The sustainability of angora wool has been a topic of debate in recent years. Some animal rights activists have raised concerns about the treatment of Angora rabbits and the use of angora wool in the fashion industry.

However, many angora wool producers take great care to ensure the welfare of their rabbits and follow strict ethical standards. Additionally, angora wool is a natural and renewable fiber, making it a more sustainable choice than synthetic materials.

Conclusion

Angora wool is a luxurious and versatile fiber that has many benefits. It is incredibly soft, warm, and lightweight, making it a popular choice for high-end fashion and home decor items. While it does require special care, angora wool is a durable and long-lasting fiber when properly cared for. Additionally, many angora wool producers are committed to ethical and sustainable practices, making it a more responsible choice than synthetic materials.