Alpaca wool is a softer, warmer, stronger and lighter fiber than sheep’s wool. Its softness is comparable to cashmere. Moreover it does not contain lanolin, which constitutes a perfect alternative for the allergic to the traditional fibers since it does not scratch.
To add to the charm of this natural fiber: an impressive range of natural color is available. Alpaca is the only animal to have such a variety of shades. The alpaca fiber is available in 24 colors recognized by the textile industry, ranging from white to cream, tawny, brown, gray and black.
– The evaluation criteria of wool in alpaca –
Finesse
This is the most important point of a fleece, fineness is related to softness and this is what we are looking for the most in the processing of wool. The eye, the touch are good indicators for an experienced person, a wool analysis done by a laboratory will be a justice of the peace for a novice person. This analysis will highlight different points.
Shine
She is also very important, it is she who will make a bright garment, so it is important to know how to appreciate the brilliance to select her within her flock.
Density
This is the best way to increase production, it is better to produce 10 kilos of wool with 2 alpacas than 5.
Crimp
It is about the natural ripple of the fiber, the crimp must be regular in its undulation, its frequency and its amplitude and this, along the whole length of the wick.
The lenght
There is usually a shoot of 1cm per month, a fiber too short at the time of mowing is not desirable for the quality of the garment.
Uniformity
The ideal animal has a fine fleece, soft and shiny on the whole body (back, neck, legs) these animals are extremely rare. However, it is important for an animal to have the same fiber traits on all 3 control points. To control these 3 points, simply open the fleece on the shoulder, the center of the back and the rump.
