Alpaca

About

Warmer than sheep's wool, with an appealing shine, alpaca yarns have a soft and silky feel. Alpaca fibre does not contain lanolin, and may be a hypoallergenic choice for those who are sensitive to wool. With a beautiful drape, alpaca is great for knit or crochet accessories. Shop our range of more than 20,000 products and get started on your new artistic journey with yarn. Alpaca yarn is spun from the fleece of Alpacas. From The Camelids family, Alpacas are similar to camels and are native to South America. Indigenous South Americans have bred alpacas for thousands of years. Since this luxury yarn has so many beneficial qualities, it was often reserved for royalty, and it was sometimes known as "the fibre of the gods." There are 2 breeds of Alpaca: The Huacaya alpaca and the Suri Alpaca with yarn from each breed prized for different reasons. Huacaya alpacas are bigger than Suri alpacas and have more crimp to their fibres making them appear fuzzier. Suri Alpacas have a more shaggy appearance with much straighter and finer fibres. Alpaca Yarn comes in a variety of weights including 2ply, 4ply, 8ply and chunkier. Alpaca wool is considered to be softer than sheep's wool and is more durable. Characteristics Of Alpaca Yarn Alpaca wool is considered to be softer than sheep's wool and is more durable. The Alpaca fibres have small air pockets which provide breathability. Alpaca yarn is also highly insulative making it one of the warmest animal fibres. It is also water resistant and difficult to set fire too. Alpaca fibres do not contain lanolin which makes them hypoallergenic. Lanolin is a waxy substance that’s produced naturally among some animals (like sheep) and it can cause allergic reactions in people. Those who are sensitive to it may experience itching, red eyes, and blisters, to name a few symptoms. Benefits of Alpaca Yarn Garments made from Alpaca yarn are very warm and soft. The yarn is also hypoallergenic and moisture wicking making it perfect for a variety of kni