Boa (clothing accessory)
Boa (clothing accessory)
A boa is a fashion accessory that is usually worn wrapped around the neck like a scarf. Feather boas are most common, although modern boas are most often made with synthetic feathers.
Construction
A boa can be made of fur, but it is usually made instead from various types of feathers. Ostrich, marabou stork, and turkey) are the most common feathers used, although non-feather boas are also available. The feathers go through bleaching or dyeing processes and are glued and stitched into lengths called "ply". Sometimes more natural boas are produced. A lightweight chandelle boa might only weigh 65 grams (2.3 oz), whereas a 24 ply ostrich boa can weigh as much as 200 grams (7.1 oz). The more ply, the fluffier and thicker the boa. Boas are generally measured by weight (grams), length (centimetres), and ply. Boas are available through novelty, costume, or lingerie shops, as well as online.
Construction
With the development of "fun fur" or "eyelash" yarns in the late 20th century, an adept craftsperson can knit a boa of one solid color or a mix of various colors. Yarn boas do not "shed" like feather boas and are favored for their soft texture against the neck. The rounded boa shape is achieved by knitting one row and purling) the next row, then repeating this pattern until reaching the desired length.
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