There is a very strong market for alpaca products internationally with supply always falling short of demand. To compete in this global fiber market, we need to be breeding for specific fiber characteristics. The other factor we need to pay attention to is nutrition. Fiber quality is based equally on genetics and nutrition. We need to have a solid understanding of the fiber itself, from breeding to feeding to processing.

Springtime is shearing season. Much like a barn raising or a quilting bee, shearing day is a time for teamwork and sharing. Some farms shear their own animals, others hire it done. The key is to be prepared, be organized, and to do it as quickly and efficiently as possible so there is minimal stress on the alpacas, especially the pregnant females!  Shearing our alpacas is an annual event and of utmost importance. It is critical to the health of our alpacas. The true value of shearing, however, lies in its influence on fiber utilization. Prior to shearing season, breeding decisions, nutrition, and environment effect fiber growth and quality. Once shorn, the alpaca fleece becomes a tangible commodity with the potential to be sold and transformed into product. Shearing is the fulcrum of the process. The removal of an alpaca’s fleece can’t improve the inherent quality of the fiber, but it can easily ruin a year’s growth. Shearing is an opportunity to evaluate our success, or lack of, in producing quality, marketable alpaca fiber.

MORE ABOUT SHEARING
Alpaca Shearing
Alpaca Shearing Tips
Cleaning The Fiber
Equipment and Technique

SHEARERS
Biosecure Alpaca Shearing

Processing of alpaca fiber has grown significantly in the past several years and mini-mills are springing up around the country. Owners wishing to add value to their fiber can have alpaca fleece processed into finished alpaca products including bats, rovings, felt, and finished yarns. Preparation prior to processing is key in the production of a quality end-product.  Fiber coops are available by which contributions of fiber gives you access to the purchase of alpaca textiles, yarns, and garments at a reduced price.

Virtually all fiber is useful, but care should be taken to put grades of fiber to the best end product. The feel of the fiber tells you what the end use should be. A certified sorter is definitely a great boon to developing optimumfiber products. The sorter will place your fibers into grades of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Grade 2 (20 to 23 microns) is best suited for lace & fingering weight yarn. Grade 3 (24 to 28 microns)  is best suited for sport and bulky weight yarn. Grade 4 (29 to 33 microns) is best suited to felt and should be blended with 25 merino to make a felt that will not shed as readily. Grade 5 and 6 are best suited for rug yarn and should be blended with 10% nylon. Technically, yarn or felt can be made from all grades, but following these guidelines will give the best end products.

FIBER COOP
AFCNA - Alpaca Fiber Coop of North America
NAAFP - North American Alpaca Fiber Producers
NEAFP - New England Alpaca Fiber Pool

FIBER ART RESOURCES
Fiberarts Magazine
Artspan Portals
Creating and Marketing Your Fiber Art
Fabric Art Collage
All Fiber Arts
Textile Arts
Fiber Festivals
Fiber Arts On-Line