Yarn

[matata]

Does anyone raise their own fiber for crocheting or knitting? You can get fiber from rabbits, sheep, alpacas/llamas or Yaks, I guess. I do a LOT of crocheting and was wondering if it was more feasible to raise some type of animal for the fiber or just to plan on buying my yarn?

[Jenny]

I don't knit or crochet, but want to learn. Chuck and I have considered getting yaks for several reasons, but we're in such a high snow area that it would probably be a bad idea. (But a few more years like this one with hardly any snow, and we may change our minds and take the plunge) As far as the financial aspect goes, I have no idea which is better, but would guess that, unless you're selling your products, buying the yarn would be cheaper, and certainly easier.

But, there's more to it than that. When you raise your own (food, fiber, whatever) you get lots more satisfaction out of it, and you know the quality is the absolute best! You don't have to depend on availability, selection, worry about prices going up in the stores, or wonder if the quality will be high and consistent. I just like being as self sufficient as possible, and we're constantly working at becoming more independent every year. If I were already into knitting, I'm sure we'd already have animals here for fiber. You can also use them for food.

So, I'd say if you have a place and the time for them, get the animals and have fun! (Oh, but do it before they have to be chipped! )

Jenny