Alpaca Shearing And Fleece Facts

Alpaca fleece is highly sought after by handcrafters and commercial markets alike because it is one of the finest natural fibers. Fibers are measured using laser scanning technology and the result is a graph called a histogram that can be used to evaluate fleeces of different alpacas.

Click the histogram to the right for an enlarged, readable copy!

Click Here to read more about Understanding and Interpreting Micron Testing by Angus McColl.

Alpaca fleece can be made into any products that can be made out of wool, and the result will be warmer, lighter, and softer. Many people who cannot wear wool because it is too scratchy can wear alpaca. People who are allergic to the lanolin in wool can wear alpaca, which does not have lanolin. Those who are allergic to commercial dyes can wear alpaca, which comes in over 20 natural colors. Click on the chart on the left for an enlarged, readable copy.

 
Alpaca is marvelous for baby clothes and luxury garments. The Japanese even make alpaca underwear!

Alpacas are sheared once a year, like sheep, using hand clippers or electric shears. The fleece is then separated into the blanket, which is the best quality, and other parts.

 

Before Shearing	After Shearing