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If you've been left out of the loop you may not have noticed that knitting has become a very popular trend in the past few years. This has set off an increase of online and physical yarn stores that are rapidly appearing everywhere, in fact, novelty and traditional yarns are also becoming readily available in a variety of textures, thickness and colors.

One type of traditional yarn that has recently become quite popular is angora yarn. Angora wool is obtained from angora rabbits, not to be confused with mohair which is obtained from Angora goats.

Angora Wool - Things you may not know about this yarn

Angora yarn is so highly valued because it has a low micron count. What is a micron? A micron is the measurement used to express the diameter of a wool fiber. The lower the micron count the finer the wool.

As a comparison, merino wool can range from 10-25 microns while mohair ranges from 25-45 microns. Angora wool, however, maintains a micron count of 12-16 microns.

Angora wool is also valued for its halo or fluffiness. Therefore, it is the fluffy angora yarn that gives garments its light, downy appearance. In fact, another reason angora wool is so sought after is because it is also one of the warmest types of yarn.

Angora strands are hollow which is the reason why it has the insulating properties that make it seven times warmer than sheep's wool.

Some people may find the halo bothersome or inconvenient, especially if they have allergies, however, angora can be spun together with other wools to help decrease its softness and price.

In fact, it may be easier to find angora knitwear that is also made with some percentage of other wools, even acrylic fibers. This also goes for angora sweaters, mittens, scarves and caps, all of which are made from 100% angora wool.

Fortunately, you can also get hold of 100% angora yarn to make your own garments. If you don't find the color you want you can even dye it yourself, something that is possible because angora is a natural fiber.

Get Acquainted with Angora Rabbits

Just like sheep's wool, the angora wool is removed from the rabbit by one of two processes. The rabbit is either sheared or combed to remove the wool. Some people prefer hairs that have been combed off the animal because they feel it is more humane and also because shearing produces cut fibers which leads to a lesser quality fiber.

Because rabbits are such small creatures, several people have taking the initiative to raise their own animals and spin their own yarn. However, this isn't precisely something that appeals to everyone, especially considering that it does require a certain level of investment, both in time and money.