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Alpacas are incredible animals often described as a smaller version of a llama. Native to Chile, Bolivia & Peru, alpacas have been domesticated to produce their fine fiber for more than 5,000 years. They were imported into the United States for the first time in 1984. Now more than 70,000 alpacas are being raised in North America, with farms in each of the 50 U.S. states. |
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| There are two types of alpacas - huacaya and suri. They are different only in their fleece type. The huacaya has crimpy fiber that grows perpendicular to its skin, giving it a teddy bear look. The suri has fiber without crimp that grows in pencil-sized locks parallel to its skin, like dreadlocks. Only 2% of the world’s alpaca population is suri. Each fiber type creates yarns and fabrics with unique characteristics. Those made with huacaya tend to have a lofty, fuzzy look, while those made with suri are sleek, and shiny. Both fleece types are known for their luxuriously smooth, silky handle. |  |
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Garments and accessories made from alpaca are a treat to wear! Alpaca is very thermal, so even lightweight items provide a great deal of warm comfort. It has a beautiful sheen and drape that handcrafters love. One of the most prolific color producers in the fiber-animal kingdom, there are over 22 recognized natural alpaca colors, though individual animals often produce slight variations to these. Alpacas can be solid colored or patterned as well. Alpaca fiber dyes beautifully and lends its wonderful softness to blends, so color and texture options are limitless | |
Alpacas are carefully sheared like sheep, but often using a table and only once a year in the spring. The relatively small numbers compared to other fleece bearing livestock contributes to alpaca fiber’s high value and exclusivity. The weight of an alpaca fleece is 2 to 12 lbs. Alpacas are hardy, gentle animals that are easy to care for and pleasant to be around. For more info please visit our farm website: www.CopperRidgeAlpacas.com or the Alpaca Owners and Breeders website at www.alpacainfo.com. |
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