Kentucky Home Alpacas - Fiber Products

FIBER PRODUCTS

Alpaca combines the finest and most desirable features into its fiber softer than cashmere, stronger and warmer than wool, alpaca comes in more natural colors than any other animal fiber known to man. Actually this fiber has no negative characteristics. The strength and resilience of the alpaca fiber does not decrease as it becomes finer, which is perfect for industrial processing. Since the fiber contains microscopic air pockets creating a high degree of insulation, these garments provide remarkable warmth without the usual bulk and weight. When alpaca is mixed with pima cotton, dresses are created which breathe and keep you as cool in summer as an alpaca coat does in winter. Durable yet luxurious alpaca is light-weight, water-repellant, anti-inflammatory, and insulating with natural thermostatic properties.

The natural luster of alpaca remains even if it is dyed. Velvety soft, silky smooth, a sensous handle and rich luster best describe alpaca fiber. These garments do not easily tear, pill, or create static. But wait. The best is yet to come. Alpaca is easily cleaned and maintained. Garments naturally shed wrinkles, and they seem to last forever. The familiar saying "quality always pays" is easily evident after experiencing alpaca.

As you might expect, alpaca garments for men and women such as coats, suits, hats, vests, ponchos, shawls, mittens, and scarves are outstanding in appearance. This treasured fiber is compatible with woolen or worsted manufacturing. Due to its lack of grease or lanolin, alpaca is easier and less expensive to process than sheep wool. Alpaca does not have to be de-haired like camel or cashmere.

Alpaca with its hand and drape can range from fine quality suits and dress to upholstery or rugs. How about an alpaca evening gown or wedding dress! Baby Alpaca is used to create the finest of all baby garments. For example, a matching baby hat, booties and lace alpaca scarf would be worthy of a prince or princess. Possibilities are endless. Batting, sofa pillows, bedspreads, duvets, sofa throws, rugs or blankets will rank far superior to wool or cashmere.

What is the process that takes the fleece from the alpaca to the finished product? First, the Alpaca is shorn once a year. An average yield is from five to eight pounds per animal. A fleece of fine quality has a low micron count (diameter of the hair), and is dense, crimpy and uniform. Shearing can be done by hand or with electric shears. The fleece is sorted by color and grade. Next the fleece is washed. (No chemicals are used.) At this point, raw fiber can be dyed or blended if desired. Carding is then performed to prepare the fiber for spinning by untangling the fiber and laying it parallel. To create finer worsted fabrics, combing is done after carding and spun into worsted yarn. Finally the fiber is drawn to a final diameter and given its final twist to be used in the woolen or worsted system. The last step in the process is weaving the yarn into the final product.

Alpaca is the textile of choice for some very well known American and international fashion designers and for successful creative cottage industries. It should be obvious that whether you are wearing an alpaca sweater or lounging in a alpaca duvet, once you experience the sheer luxury of alpaca, you understand why alpaca should be considered the eighth wonder of the world.