MEET ALPACA
FROM:
Well… alpaca.
IS IT SUSTAINABLE?
Yes.
IS IT DURABLE?
Yes.
IS IT BREATHABLE?
Yes.
HISTORY:
Alpaca wool was highly prized by the Inca civilization, which ruled over much of South America from the 13th to the 16th century. The Inca people considered alpaca wool to be a sacred material and used it to create clothing and textiles for the ruling class.
After the Spanish conquest of South America in the 16th century, the production of the wool declined as the indigenous population enslaved and forced to work in silver mines and other industries. However, alpaca wool remained an important part of Andean culture and was still used to create clothing and textiles for local communities.
In the 19th century, alpaca wool gained popularity in Europe and North America as a luxury material for high-end fashion. Today, the wool is still produced using traditional methods in many parts of South America, and it is widely used in a variety of products, from clothing and accessories to home decor and crafts.
PRODUCTION PROCESS:
The production process of alpaca wool typically involves the following steps:
- The wool is harvested from the alpacas by shearing their fleece with clippers or scissors. Alpacas are typically sheared once a year, usually in the spring or early summer.
- The wool is then sorted and graded according to its quality and fineness. This involves separating the wool into different grades based on the length, thickness, and color of the fibers.
- The wool is washed and then carded to separate and align the fibers
- The wool is then spun into yarn using a spinning wheel or other spinning equipment.
- The yarn can be dyed but some alpaca wool is left undyed, showcasing the natural colors of the fibers.
- The yarn is then woven or knitted into finished products, such as clothing, accessories, or home decor.
Watch some alpacas take a walk on the Nat Geo WILD YouTube channel.
