Choosing Alpaca Yarn
Frequently asked questions
Is alpaca warmer than wool?
Yes, for the same thickness. Alpaca fibre is hollow, which traps more air. It is also lighter, so alpaca garments feel less bulky.
Is alpaca itchy?
Rarely. It has very little prickle and almost no lanolin, so many people who react to wool can wear alpaca comfortably.
Can I machine wash alpaca?
Pure alpaca is hand wash and dry flat. Blends with acrylic, such as Fiddlesticks Grange, Cleckheaton Rodinia and Heirloom Arcadia, take a gentle machine wash. Check the ball band.
Does alpaca stretch out of shape?
It can. Alpaca has less bounce than wool, so heavy garments may drop. Choose a blend for fitted garments and keep pure alpaca for scarves, shawls and loose shapes.
Is alpaca good for babies?
Yes, it is soft and low in allergens, and baby alpaca is the softest grade. It needs hand washing, so many people prefer superwash merino for everyday baby clothes.
What ply is your alpaca?
8 ply pure alpaca and blends, 10 ply in Rodinia and Grange, 12 ply in Baby Alpaca Air and Jet, 14 ply Fairhaven, and a 2 ply lace weight in Rowan Alpaca Haze.
What is baby alpaca?
The finest grade of alpaca fibre, not fibre from young animals. It is softer and used where the yarn will sit against the skin.
What needles for alpaca?
The same as any yarn of that ply: 4mm for 8 ply. Alpaca drapes, so some knitters go down half a size for a firmer fabric.