An Overview Of Alpaca Fiber For Sale

By Chelsea Evans


A growing number of hand-spinners and commercial producers are looking for alpaca fiber for sale. The market is expanding because of the qualities of the product. The characteristics are like sheep's wool in many ways, but lacks the lanolin that many are allergic to. As a hypoallergenic product, the benefits are significant. In addition, the fibers are soft, silky and luxurious. They are also very durable. The product is resistant to moisture and is slow to ignite.

The animals were originally bred in the Andes Mountains of Peru. They thrive in elevations ranging from ten thousand to fourteen feet. Expanding outward from Peru, they are also found in Australia, New Zealand and North America. They are also found in other South American countries. Production has been ongoing for at least two thousand years, as shown by remnants of cloth found with fibers of alpaca.

Two major types of fibers are derived from the fleece of alpacas. The Suri version is longer with minimal crimping. The feel of these suri types are silky. These are often utilized for woven products such as in making quality men's and women's suits by Armani. The second type of animal is the Huacaya fleece. The coat of this animal is somewhat spongy. It is naturally crimped so the yarn produced has good elasticity. Knitters prefer this type of yarn.

There are other terms that describe the fibers. Generally, baby alpaca is velvety smooth and silky soft to the touch. It was once worn by the royal Incas. Even the standard fibers are noted as luxurious in nature and popular for construction of lightweight yet warm products.

Those individuals who want to take advantage of the benefits of this type of fiber include hand-spinners and knitters. There is an increasing number of local producers who sometimes coordinate the sale of the product through co-ops. Some individuals go even more enthusiastically into acquiring the fiber by installing a pet or two in the backyard or small acreage.

The flocks in South America's high altitudes are typically sheared every other year, just before the rainy season begins. An adult male will produce about 8 pounds of wool each time it is sheared. The first results tend to be finer and softer, and are classified as baby alpaca fibers. Other grades are the "select" and "royal" types. In the northern hemisphere, animals are usually sheared every year.

Naturally attractive colors are another benefit of the yarns from the fleece of this animal. More than forty shades have been identified. These range from ivory to black and a multitude of shades and hues in gray, tan and brown as well. The shades which are lighter accept dyes successfully.

Alpaca fiber for sale is available from domestic or international sources. The luxurious, yet lightweight appearance is both soft and warm. The product is hypoallergenic and is comfortable to wear. In an expanding global economy, the product is a renewable item with an agricultural basis for the entire Andean region.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment