Furry look

Press, 6 July 1983, Page 16

Furry look

A new, speciality, handknit yarn has arrived from Twilleys, of England, and is being distributed in this country by the FontanaAotea division of Alltex International. Knitted up, “Minx” looks like somewhat shaggy fur — thick and cosy. This is less surprising when one sees the structure of it, and learns that it is 62 per cent alpaca, 8 per cent cotton and 30 per cent acrylic.

Southern Alps Equipment, Ltd, has added another jacket to its kitset range. Called the “Fibre Fleece Jacket,” it is an easy-to-make, fibre-pile garment in mid-grey or navy blue, with navy blue trim. The synthetic fibre-pile, made in England, is smooth on the outside and has pile on the inside. It is not waterproof or windproof, but is ideal in many conditions for tramping and cycling. It is very light in weight, being half the weight of wool for the same warmth, and a jacket in fibre-pile can be bundled up small to stow in a knapsack or pannier bag.

Whereas wool can absorb a third of its weight in water, fibre-pile absorbs

The fibre of the alpaca fleece is soft and silky, yet stronger than that of ordinary sheep’s wool. It is also water repellent and warm when in bulk.

A jersey in Minx takes about fourteen 50g balls, and a jacket takes about 19. Patterns for the new yam cover an interesting variety of fashion garments, includ-

only one per cent, yet still provides insulation when wet. The advantage is that once it is wrung out, it dries again very quickly. Like wool, fibre-pile also “breathes,” even when wet, so it does not get steamy on the inside. The new jacket kits have been available for only a month, but are already selling well. They have knit fabric cuffs and waistbands in navy blue; optional sleeve patches; two exterior handwarmer pockets; and a fulllength, front zip that enables the collar to sit up as a polo neck, when required.

The all-included kit costs $37, and the size range is from “extra small” (for nine or 10 year-olds) to adult.

ing short and long jackets and two-colour vests. There are four shades available — cream, silver grey, charcoal and donkey brown.