ALPACA FLEECE

Finer grades of alpaca fleece are believed to be hypo-allergenic, meaning it is less likely to irritate allergen particles. Unlike sheep's wool, alpaca fleece contains no lanolin and is ready to spin after only nominal cleaning. Prized for its unique silky feel and superb "handle," alpaca fleece is highly sought-after by cottage-industry artists (hand spinners, knitters, weavers, etc.) and the commercial fashion industry.

Alpaca fleece has a variety of natural colours, making it very desirable. Sixteen colours are officially recognized (white; beige; and shades of fawn, brown, black, and grey) with many additional subtle shades and hues. White, light fawn and light grey can be easily dyed to offer a rainbow of colours for the fibre artist. Combining alpaca fleece with fine fibres such as merino wool, cashmere, mohair, silk, or angora can produce incredibly interesting blends.