Animal fiber

The animal fibers used most commonly both in the manufacturing world as well as by the hand spinners are wool from domestic sheep and silk.

Unusual fibers such as Angora wool from rabbits and Chiengora from dogs also exist, but are rarely used for mass production.

The best-known type of silk is obtained from cocoons made by the larvae of the silkworm Bombyx mori reared in captivity.

It is also highly elastic, the silk of the ogre-faced spider can be stretched six times its original length without damage.

As of 2005, there is no synthetic material in production that can match spider silk, but it is actively being sought by the U.S. military for such applications as body armor, parachutes and rope.

[1] Genetically engineered goats have been raised to produce spider silk in their milk at a cost of around $1,500 per gram.

Cashmere is characterized by its luxuriously soft fibers, with high napability and loft.

In order for a natural goat fiber to be considered Cashmere, it must be under 18.5 micrometers in diameter and be at least 3.175 centimeters long.

Fibers are highly adaptable and are easily constructed into fine or thick yarns, and light to heavy-weight fabrics.

It is notable for its high luster and sheen, and is often used in fiber blends to add these qualities to a textile.

Qiviut fibers are long (about 5 to 8 cm), fine (between 15 and 20 micrometers in diameter), and relatively smooth.

Hand spinners also use fiber from animals such as llamas, camels, yak, and possums.

The best artists brushes are made from Siberian weasel, many other fibers are used including ox hair and hog bristle.