I think we can all agree that Alpacas are adorable! But they have more of a purpose than just looking cute (even though they do that so well). Their fleece, often compared to cashmere, can be used for a wide array of products. There are so many benefits to this fiber and it is recognized around the world as a high quality material. Even designers, such as Armani, have made suits about of Alpaca fiber. Ready to learn about some of these benefits?
Hypoallergenic
Unlike sheep’s wool, alpaca fiber does not contain lanolin. which is a natural wax secreted by some wool-producing animals that people can be allergic to, and therefore, it is naturally hypoallergenic. Most people who are sensitive to wool find that they can wear alpaca without the itching or irritation they feel from wool because alpaca fiber is smooth.
Soft
Alpaca fiber is prized for its soft, silky feel and is highly sought after by both cottage-industry artists as well as the commercial fashion industry. It also has the luster of silk making it highly coveted.
Water Repellant
The fiber has a very low water retention rate making it naturally water repellant.
Warm
Alpaca fiber is extremely warm, but also lightweight. This is because the airiness of the fiber allows the fiber to retain heat without becoming too heavy. It contains air pockets which gives the fiber a lightweight quality without sacrificing warmth. These air pockets also make the fiber very breathable. Alpaca fiber is just as warm as wool but one third of the weight.
Sturdy
Without lanolin or other excess secretions, the fineness of the fiber makes it less likely to pill.
In addition, alpaca fiber wicks away moisture, is naturally windproof, flame resistant, has low static electricity, is stain resistant, odor and wrinkle resistant, and is all natural and biodegradable.
Alpaca wool is still a luxury item but it is more accessible and affordable than cashmere. It comes in 16 official colors with many shades. The lighter colors can also be easily dyed to any color of the rainbow. It can also be combined with other fibers such as merino wool, cashmere, mohair, silk, and angora to get many other interesting fiber blends.
Interested in trying alpaca fiber out for yourself? We have a small limited stock available or items ranging from socks (great for that odor resistance!) to the cuddliest teddy bears you have ever hugged. Check out our store. We are adding inventory all the time. If there is something you are interested in that you do not see in our store, send us an email.
Next year after shearing time, we look forward to adding fiber items directly from our farm. But for now, Grace, Rain, and Magic are busy growing their fleece to provide you with more fiber options in the future.
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