Chiengora, Chiengora Information, Chiengora Wiki

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Chiengora is a yarn or wool spun from dog hair. The word is a portmanteau of "chien", the French word for dog, and "angora." When the yarn made from dog hair is going to be knitted the hair is generally blended with wool during the carding process. Wool stretches, dog hair does not, and thus the blend allows for a blend that gives some, which is preferable when knitting. Dog hair is also often blended with wool in order to create a yarn with less heat insulation, as dog hair insulates very well.

History of Chiengora

Spinning dog hair is not a new art form. Dog hair has been found in yarns dating back from pre-historic Scandinavia, and in textiles from the Navajo Indians of North America. In modern times it is rarely used. In general it is only used by hand spinners with pet dogs.

Benefits of Chiengora

Chiengora is similar in appearance to Angora and appears (and feels) very soft. Chiengora tends to "fluff" with use, creating a halo effect.

It is warm, even in frigid temperatures, and is somewhat water repellant.

Unlike other products made from fur, chiengora is easy to get materials for. In most double-coated dog breeds, the soft undercoat sheds out naturally in the Spring, and grows back every year.