Yarn - Alpaca & Blends

Alpacas - Gentle by Nature

Alpacas are gentle, camel-like animals native to the Andes Mountains of South America, where they’ve been raised for thousands of years for their luxurious fleece. Smaller than llamas and known for their calm nature, alpacas produce a fine, silky fibre that’s naturally soft and free from lanolin, making it ideal for people with wool sensitivities. Their fleece comes in a stunning range of natural colours, from creamy whites and warm browns to deep greys and blacks, and is prized worldwide for its warmth, softness, and elegant sheen.

Today, alpacas are also happily at home in New Zealand, where the clean environment and mild climate provide excellent conditions for producing high-quality fibre. New Zealand alpaca farmers are known for their careful breeding and sustainable farming practices, resulting in some of the finest alpaca yarns available.

Benefits of Alpaca Wool for Knitting

Alpaca wool is beloved by knitters for its incredible softness and warmth. The fibres are smooth and silky, giving finished projects a beautifully soft hand-feel and a gentle drape that’s perfect for scarves, shawls, sweaters, and other garments worn close to the skin. Unlike traditional sheep’s wool, alpaca fibres are hollow, which means they trap heat efficiently without feeling heavy—so you stay warm and cosy without bulk. This makes alpaca yarn an excellent choice for lightweight winter knits that still offer serious insulation.

Beyond its luxurious feel, alpaca wool is naturally hypoallergenic and free of lanolin, which makes it comfortable even for sensitive skin. It’s also remarkably strong and resistant to pilling, giving knitted pieces long-lasting beauty and durability. Alpaca fibres don’t retain moisture easily, so garments stay fresh and dry even in damp or cold conditions. With its elegant sheen, rich colours, and enduring softness, alpaca wool brings a touch of natural luxury to every knitting project.