Skip to content

Fibre & Yarn

The British Alpaca Society promotes sustainable, locally-sourced alpaca fibre.  Alpaca is a natural, sustainable fibre that can help reduce our carbon footprint and change how we think about clothing. 

Fibre & Yarn

Alpaca fibre is harvested once a year at shearing & grows in 22 recognised colours & patterns. It is known as the ‘Fibre of The Gods’ and for being a luxurious product often favoured by designers.

Good quality alpaca fibre is soft to the touch (handle), uniform & bright (lustrous for suri) & should not feel dry. Huacaya fibre has fewer scales than sheep’s wool & no lanolin, suri fibre has even fewer scales making it feel more like silk to touch. For some applications blending with other fibres is an option.

Alpaca fibre has the following positive attributes:

  • Is hypoallergenic
  • Luxurious medium
  • Ethical
  • Sustainable
  • Eco-friendly in an undyed state
  • Anti-bacterial
  • Is second only to silk in strength
  • Is warmer than sheep’s wool
  • Resists pilling
  • Wicks moisture away making it suitable for all seasons
  • Coarser fibre is more durable
  • Is flame resistant
  • Odour resistant
  • Bio-degradable

History

Sir Titus Salt introduced alpaca into the UK market in 1836. Having discovered some unwanted bales of fibre at a Liverpool mill, Titus purchased the fibre and spent 18 months perfecting his method of producing alpaca material.

Uses

Artisan Creations 

UK breeders process their own alpaca fibre and sell artisan products directly to the public. A quick Google search for “British alpaca fibre” reveals a myriad of stunning creations, showcasing the enterprising spirit of the UK alpaca community. 

Diverse Products 

British Alpaca Society (BAS) members create and sell various alpaca products, from insoles and wellingtons made with coarser fibre to babywear and exclusive luxury fashion items.

Quality Yarn 

Knitters (both hand, machine, and industrial) highly value quality alpaca yarns. While South Americans use vibrant dyes, Europeans appreciate the natural colour range offered by alpaca fibre.

Environmental Appeal 

Alpaca fibre’s natural, subtle colours come with significant environmental and ethical properties, making it attractive to eco-conscious makers and markets. 

Fibre Production

Alpaca fibre yield varies by species and individual animals. On average, each alpaca produces 1kg+ of fine fibre per year (skirted weight) with good uniformity for huacaya and double that for suri.