Rabbit Angora has been used in spinning for at least the past two thousand years. Eight times warmer than sheep’s wool, only a little Angora is required to give a garment much of its warmth and fluffiness. At only 10 microns (the unit of measurement used to measure fiber diameter), it far surpasses that of other wools such as Cashmere (at 16 microns) and Merino (at 17 microns) in fineness.
However, with this high quality come a few disadvantages. Angora can fly around, causing difficulties in people with allergies. For this reason, it is often recommended that the fiber not be used if knitting for children younger than four years of age due to their undeveloped respiratory system. Also, there may be severe shedding from finished garments.
Angora wool yarn is known for its soft, fluffy, and luxurious feel. It’s made from the fine hairs of the angora rabbit, making it a sought-after material for knitters and weavers alike. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of spinning angora wool into yarn, covering everything from preparation to finishing techniques.
Materials
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary materials. You will need:
- Angora fiber
- Spinning wheel
- Lazy Kate
- Spinning bobbins
- Tensioned spindle
- Niddy Noddy
- Scissors
Preparation
To prepare the angora fiber, you will need to card it. This process involves using a carding tool, such as a drum carder or hand carder, to comb the fibers and align them in the same direction. This creates a uniform and consistent preparation of the fiber, making it easier to spin into yarn.
Spinning
Once your fiber is prepared, it’s time to start spinning. To begin, you will need to wind a leader onto your spinning wheel’s bobbin. A leader is a length of waste yarn that will help you get started spinning.
Next, feed the carded fiber onto your spinning wheel, making sure to control the tension with your hands. Start spinning the wheel, allowing the fiber to wind onto the bobbin. Continue spinning until you have a single, consistent strand of yarn.
Plying
Once you have a single strand of yarn, you can start playing. Plying is the process of twisting two or more strands of yarn together to create a thicker and stronger yarn. To ply, use a lazy Kate to hold your bobbins, and twist them together using your spinning wheel.
Finishing
After playing, you’re ready to finish your yarn. To do this, you will need to wash it and set the twist. This involves soaking the yarn in lukewarm water, gently washing it, and then hanging it to dry. Once dry, your angora wool yarn is ready to be used for your next knitting or weaving project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions and answers about spinning angora wool into yarn.
What is angora wool yarn?
Angora wool yarn is a type of yarn made from the fine hairs of the angora rabbit. It is known for its soft, fluffy, and luxurious feel, making it a popular choice for knitters and weavers.
What materials do I need to spin angora wool into yarn?
You will need angora fiber, a spinning wheel, a lazy Kate, spinning bobbins, a tensioned spindle, a niddy noddy, and scissors.
How do I prepare the angora fiber before spinning?
The angora fiber needs to be carded to align the fibers in the same direction, creating a uniform and consistent preparation for spinning.
What is plying in spinning?
Plying is the process of twisting two or more strands of yarn together to create a thicker and stronger yarn.
How do I finish the angora wool yarn?
After playing, the yarn needs to be washed and have the twist set by soaking it in lukewarm water, washing it gently, and hanging it to dry.
What is the difference between angora wool and regular wool?
Angora wool is made from the fine hairs of the angora rabbit, while regular wool is made from the fleece of sheep or other animals. Angora wool is known for its softness, while regular wool is more durable.
Can I use angora wool yarn for any knitting or weaving project?
Yes, angora wool yarn can be used for a variety of knitting and weaving projects, including blankets, scarves, and hats.
Is spinning angora wool into yarn difficult?
Spinning angora wool into yarn can be a challenging process, but with practice and the right materials and techniques, it can be a rewarding and satisfying experience.
Conclusion
Spinning angora wool into yarn is a rewarding and satisfying process that results in a soft and luxurious product. With the right materials and techniques, you can create a beautiful and high-quality yarn that you can be proud of. Whether you’re a seasoned spinner or just starting out, we hope this comprehensive guide has given you the information you need to get started.
