Alpacas and their fibre

Alpaca fibre has long been held in high esteem; described as one of the noble fleeces, its composition is completely different to that of sheep’s wool. Due to
its unique structure alpaca fibre provides a warmth that is unrelated to its weight, meaning increased comfort, a luxurious feel, and toasty bits too.

Alpaca does not retain water, is thermal even when wet, and can also resist solar radiation effectively. Remember alpacas are used to the extremes of temperature found in the Andes…they are after all designed for purpose!

Unlike sheep’s wool alpaca fleece contains no lanolin and is therefore hypoallergenic, and because we only use low micron fibre it has none of the itch often associated with woollen garments. Comparable to the super softness of cashmere, yet far more hard wearing, it is perfect for the production of luxurious products designed to last

Alpacas are shorn once each year. It is the blanket fleece that we use in our products (this is from the back and sides of the alpaca and is the finest section of the fleece) coarser fibre is used in insulation products, carpets and as stuffing.

The herd at Beck Brow Alpacas of Cumbria consists of white, fawn, brown and black alpacas (our grey yarn is created from black and white combined).