Crafting Luxurious Angora Wool Blends: The Making of My “Marshmallow Fluff” Batts
When it comes to creating the perfect spinning experience, few materials rival the softness and luxury of an angora wool blend. In my studio, I’ve developed a process to craft these exquisite blends, bringing together my own angora and fine Cormo wool to create my beloved “Marshmallow Fluff” batts. Enjoy this behind the scenes view of how these luxurious batts are made and why they should be a staple in every handspinner’s collection.
The Magic of Angora Wool Blends
Angora wool is renowned for its incredible softness, warmth, and lightness. When blended with other fine wools, such as Cormo, it creates a fiber that’s not only luxurious but also versatile. The key to making a truly exceptional angora wool blend lies in the wool choice. My goal is to create a blend that feels as luxurious as pure angora, with the addition of the lovely squishiness of wool.
In my “Marshmallow Fluff” batts, I achieve this by blending angora and Cormo wool in a 50/50 ratio. This combination offers the best of both worlds: the buttery softness of angora and the elasticity and durability of Cormo wool. The result is a batt that’s a dream to spin, with a beautiful drape and subtle sheen.
The Blending Process
Creating a smooth, consistent angora wool blend requires careful attention to detail at every stage. It all starts with the wool itself. I begin by naturally dyeing the Cormo wool, using plants and other natural materials to achieve soft, beautiful colors. Or, if I’m making a neutral colored blend, I skip the dyeing step to create white, beige, and gray, utilizing the natural colors my angora rabbits produce.
Once the wool is dyed, I begin the blending process. I feed the wool and angora into a drum carder, carefully mixing them together a little at a time. I card the fibers two to three times to ensure a smooth blend while still retaining a hint of texture. This subtle texture adds character to the yarn and makes the spinning process even more enjoyable.
Why Choose an Angora Wool Blend?
There are countless reasons to choose an angora wool blend for your next spinning project. The most obvious is the unparalleled softness—angora fibers are among the softest in the world, making them perfect for garments and accessories that will be worn next to the skin. Additionally, because angora is one of the warmest fibers in the world, the angora wool blend offers excellent warmth without the bulk. This makes it ideal for lightweight yet warm creations.
But beyond the tactile benefits, there’s something truly special about working with a fiber that has been carefully crafted from start to finish. When you spin with my “Marshmallow Fluff” batts, you’re not just creating yarn; you’re connecting with me and my rabbitry, and a tradition of craftsmanship that values creativity, and the beauty of natural materials.
Explore My Shop
If you’re a handspinner looking for the perfect fiber for your next project, I invite you to explore my shop. Alongside my “Marshmallow Fluff” batts, you’ll find other hand-processed fibers, many of which are grown right here in Louisiana. I’ve also got naturally dyed cotton, an extremely rare product! Not sure if you’re up to spinning cotton? I encourage you to read this blog post.
And if you’re not a spinner just yet, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with my drop spindle beginner kits, designed to help you start your own fiber art journey. For those who appreciate handmade craftsmanship, I also offer a selection of handwoven bags, handspun tassels, and naturally dyed bandannas. Each item reflects the rustic beauty of natural materials and old fashioned skills.
Though my shop may be sparse at the moment, it’s a reflection of the care and attention that goes into every piece I create. New products are on the way, so be sure to check back often as I restock with even more luxurious angora wool blends and handmade treasures.
Thank you for supporting my creative journey. Together, let’s celebrate the joy of handmade, the beauty of tradition, and the warmth of angora wool blends.
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