Angora wool is the downy coat of an angora rabbit. The premium wool is taken from the back and upper sides of the animal, which is usually the longest and cleanest fiber of the rabbit. It has a low micron count, is silky in texture and known for its softness. It does not stretch so it is normally woven with wool so as to provide elasticity. While there are many breeds, the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recognizes four: English, French, Satin and Giant, with each breed producing its own kind of fiber and colors. Angora wool can be harvested by clipping with scissors, or removed by plucking when the rabbit naturally molts.
Angora fur is produced in Europe, China, Chile and the United States. Harvesting every 4 months due to the rabbits' natural growth cycle is preferred as it assures less matting, although shearing is less time consuming. In addition, rabbits cannot digest their own fur so it is safer to have the excess fur removed regularly.
(Photo credit: german angora.net)
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