Ursula's Alcove

Catalog : Books : Yarn

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using natural sunlight for color accuracy.

Bactrian Camel Yarn
Hand Spun in Mongolia

These yarns are made in the traditional manner, handspun in nomadic camps in the high desert. Buying this product halps support the traditional lifestyle of the Mongols. Without an outlet for their yarn, the raw fleece is dumped into the Chinese market and these women don't get paid for spinning.

The camels are Bactrian, which means two humps. Living under traditional Mongolain herder conditions at high elevations, the camels produce a finer, softer yarn. This yarn is not at all like that carpet variety produced in the Middle-East by dromedary - single hump - camels. It is closer in feel to alpaca, its South American cousin.

The yarn is availble in rich colors that vary naturally from white to tan to a rich light brown. It is available in 2 ply and single ply. The yardage does vary. We have a large selection at this time and will do our best to match color and yardage for you. Call us to request sample colors at (877) 215-6643. Computer monitors often lie when it comes to color.

Current prices are based on weight, 100 g $42. Transportation is the biggest factor in the price. In 2008, prices will be switched over to a yardage based system. Prices are listed on the Yarn Page.

Hand washing is recommended for your finished projects. Generally, it's best to block them anyway. Ursula advocates the use of shampoo. Handwash your finished project the same way you would your own hair. Use conditioner too if you like. Towel dry and lay your project flat, pinning (blocking) as needed. If washing the skeins before use, you may set the twist like handspinners do. Hang the skein on a hook or half-hitch it onto a clothesline and take a hand-filled spray bottle, and use that as a weight, hooking it onto the bottom of the skein.

For More Information on the Herder Communites, visit Nomad Yarns.

For other way cool Mongolian Products, visit Kallisti Publishing Inc.

To Help the Mongolian Snow Leopard: Snow Leopard Trust.