The Ultimate Goal Is Fiber
Fiber Grades
ROYAL ALPACA
<20 microns (usually reserved for fashion designers)
BABY ALPACA "Premium Alpaca"
20 - 23 microns
Standard Alpaca Fleece
24 - 28 microns
Coarse Alpaca
29 - 33 microns
Coarse Referred to as inferior
33 - 35 microns
Very Coarse
Over 35 microns
Alpacas are shorn annually for their rich fiber that is recognized worldwide as one of the most wonderful of natural fibers.
It is water resistance is because of an alkaline substance on the out side of the fiber called suint.
The staple length of the fiber is from three to six inches in one year of growth.
It’s softer than cashmere, lighter and warmer than wool with absolutely no “itch” factor because it’s hypo-allergenic and contains no lanolin.
Adults will produce 5 to 10 pounds of soft, warm fiber that is turned into the most luxurious garments in the world.
Coveted by the fashion and textile industries, alpaca fiber fetches high prices on the market.
Alpaca fiber comes in 22 colours that are recognized and there are many blends (250 shades) in addition to that.
Its uses also include household items like blankets, rugs and upholstery.