When you think of luxurious yarn, your mind probably drifts to images of cashmere goats or fluffy sheep, the creators of wool. But let me introduce you to an unlikely hero in the world of fine fibers: the common raccoon dog. Yes, you heard that right. This curious creature, which looks like it stepped out of a fairy tale with its plush, masked face and bushy tail, is the secret behind some of the most exquisite yarns produced by Consinee Group | Ningbo Consinee Woolen Textile Co., Ltd.
Now, before you picture a raccoon rummaging through your garbage, let’s set the record straight. The raccoon dog, despite its name, isn’t a raccoon at all. It’s a member of the canid family, meaning it’s more closely related to wolves and foxes. And while they might look a little quirky, these animals have something extraordinary going for them: their fur.
Raccoon dog fur is like the hidden gem of the textile world. It’s incredibly soft, with a texture that rivals—and some might argue, even surpasses—cashmere. The fur is naturally warm and light, making it perfect for creating yarn that doesn’t just keep you cozy but also feels like a dream against your skin. The fibers have a unique luster, giving the finished product a subtle, elegant sheen that’s hard to beat. It’s very hairy, so think mohair but with a micron count as low as 12.
Consinee Group has recognized the potential of raccoon dog fur and turned it into something truly special. The company blends this fur with other natural fibers to create yarns that are not only luxurious but also environmentally conscious. Since raccoon dogs aren’t farmed solely for their fur (they’re more often seen in the wild), using their fur for yarn reduces waste and makes use of a resource that would otherwise go untapped. It’s a win-win situation—luxurious yarn that’s kinder to the planet. Here at WvG, we like 100% raccoon or a blend of 70% raccoon and 30% cashmere.
But why should you give raccoon dog yarn a chance? For starters, it’s a conversation piece. Imagine telling your friends that your scarf isn’t made from cashmere but from the fur of a raccoon dog! Beyond the novelty, though, this yarn offers all the qualities you’d want in a high-end fabric: warmth, softness, durability, and that elusive touch of luxury that’s hard to find.
This quirky little creature might just be the best thing to happen to luxury yarn since the invention of cashmere. I’d really like to make a grandpa cardigan or an oversized hoodie. Hopefully, you’re willing to give the raccoon dog a shot. And who knows, you might just start a new trend—one that’s both fabulously fashionable and delightfully unexpected.
-Mauro