Fiber Fineness

Nobility has long worn alpaca fiber, first during the Incan reign in South America, then by European aristocracy, which is fitting for these regal-looking animals.

The fiber is soft to the touch, warm to wear and very strong. The first shearing of an animal bears the finest fiber of all: baby alpaca. Although small in quantity, the delicate nature of the fleece lends itself to luxurious lacework and fine garments.

There are 22 colors recognized by the Alpaca Registry, Inc., including white, grey, fawn, brown and black, and many shades between.

The fiber is considered to be hypoallergenic, due to the scale arrangement on the fiber shaft. It is very clean, and needs little washing because it lacks the lanolin found in sheep wool.

Favorable comparisons are made to other natural fibers: alpaca is as soft and elegant as cashmere, yet easier to process, thereby making it more affordable; it is also more durable than sheep’s wool, and just as warm.

Alpaca fiber is gaining popularity for it’s dichotomous character: luxurious, yet practical.

Animal Information