The Angora goat is covered in long, shiny locks that shine like diamonds and grow like weeds. The locks – called mohair – are the fastest growing fiber of any domesticated animal, reaching 4 -6 inches between biannual shearing.
The Angora is originally from Turkey. The name of the breed comes from Ankara, the capital of Turkey, while the term mohair is derived from the Arabic word “mukhayyar,” which refers to fabrics woven from Angora fiber. The famously fluffy Angora rabbits also owe their names to their Turkish origin.
Texas is an important worldwide producer of commercial mohair, coming in second just behind South Africa. The goats have been an important part of the state’s fiber economy since the mid 19th century, with the goats thriving in the brushy environments that aren’t suitable for cows and horses. Much of the mohair used in our yarns is from animals raised here in our home state of Texas.
While the mohair grown for the market is white, the Angora comes in a variety of colors – from steely black to strawberry blonde. Until recently, the color variations were considered defects by breeding associations. The founding of the Colored Angora Goats Association in 1998 has helped changed the tide, especially in hand spinning and artisan yarn markets.
We love mohair for its strength, shine and fuzzy halo. It lends a bit of luxury to any yarn blend that it’s a part of.
Our Angora goat (mohair) yarns are:
- Gabbro
- Muskeg
- Alabaster
- Arkose