Alpaca
History
Alpacas are a domestic species of South American camelid, mainly found at altitudes ranging from about 3,000 to 4,800 meters above sea level in the Andean regions of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Their thick and insulating fleece helps protect them from extreme temperatures often experienced at high altitudes, and has become growingly popular in today’s fashion world given its unique fineness, softness, and warmness. Alpaca fleece comes in over 25 different natural colors, including white, gray, brown and black, and may also be dyed with natural dyes.
The most delicate alpaca fiber is called baby alpaca, which derives from the first shearing of the adult alpaca, typically between one to two years of age. The fleece from this first shearing is exceptionally soft and fine. All of all·paca’s garments are 100% made of baby alpaca, stemming from the Southern Andean regions of Peru.
Benefits
Hypoallergenic: Alpaca fibers are a natural fiber free of chemical additives and lanolin, a natural grease present in sheep wool which may cause allergic reactions or irritate sensitive skin.
Moisture Wicking: Alpaca fibers have a natural ability to wick away moisture from the body, helping to regulate body temperature and keep the wearer dry and comfortable.
Resistance: Alpaca fiber is seven times warmer and stronger than sheep's wool, and up to three times more resistant than Merino or Mohair wool. It does not wear out with use.
Impermeability: Baby alpaca fiber has a high natural level of water resistance given its smooth surface containing microscopic air pockets, and will therefore prevent heat loss during rainy days.
Fineness: Baby alpaca fibers generally have a very low micron count, often ranging from around 18 to 22 microns, which is considerably finer than many other natural fibers.
Sustainability: Alpacas are gentle grazers that have a smaller carbon footprint compared to other livestock. Alpacas' padded feet, similar to cats and dogs, are less likely to cause soil erosion. Moreover, alpaca require less land and water than other animals, and have an optimal digestive system producing low-nitrate manure, being less harmful than that of sheep. All·paca commits to the highest ethical, social, and environmental standards, and economically benefits alpaca farming in Southern Peru.
Washing
Your all·paca scarf is made of a delicate natural fiber, so we recommend dry cleaning the product. However, if preferred, you may also hand wash your scarf by following the steps below:
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the fibers to shrink.
- Add a mild wool or delicate fabric detergent to the water. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.
- Submerge the alpaca clothing in the water and gently agitate it to distribute the detergent. Avoid excessive rubbing or wringing, as this can lead to stretching or damaging the fibers.
- Let the garment soak for about 10-15 minutes.
- Gently swish the clothing around in the water again, then drain the soapy water.
- Rinse the alpaca clothing thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Avoid twisting or wringing the garment.
- Remove excess water from the clothing, by gently pressing the water out without wringing or twisting. You can also place the garment between two clean, dry towels and press to absorb moisture.
- To dry, lay your scarf flat on a clean, dry towel, reshaping it to its original dimensions. Avoid hanging the garment, as this can stretch it out of shape. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as excessive heat can damage the fibers.
- Once your scarf is completely dry, fold it and store it in a cool, dry place. To prevent moths, you can place cedar blocks or lavender sachets in your storage area.