• Average lifespan : 15 years

• Origins : South America

• Breeding life : 10 cria per female

• Average height : little above 3 ft at the shoulder

• Average weight : 132 - 180 lbs. (60-80 kilos)

• Fiber : softer, lighter and stronger than wool

• Fiber production : 3 to 4kgs per animal (one shearing annually)

• Fiber Price per pound : aprox US$15 - $50 - price varies depending on quality

• Color : 22 basic colors

• Gestation : 11.5 months

• Offspring : one cria (baby) every 14-15 months.

• Diet : grass, hay and occasional supplements

• Stock rate : 4 to 10 alpacas per acre depending on soil type

• Communication : alpacas express themselves with a soft "hum"

• Hembra : female alpaca

• Macho : male alpaca

• Cria : baby alpaca

·          Alpaca fiber is extremely fine with little guard hair

·          has less prickle factor than most other animals

·          is compatible with either the woolen or worsted manufacturing systems

·          has excellent insulative or thermal qualities

·          has a rich silky sheen which has high visual appeal in the apparel industry

·          is 30% warmer than the same weight of Merino wool

·          is 4 times more abrasion resistant than Merino wool

·          is stronger than wool and does not pill in the better quality animals

·          contains no grease, oil or lanolin and does not smell

·          is bulky but will spring back when squashed

·          does not retain water and can resist solar radiation

·          does not shrink when washed

·          comes in 22 different colors

·          is lightweight and incredibly soft

·          is rare – supply cannot keep up with demand for fine quality fleece

·          can be carded and blended with other natural fibers

·          can be easily dyed any color without losing its sheen

The potential for the apparel industry is enormous for manufacturers, spinners and weavers. A fiber that is fine yet soft with no prickle factor and excellent thermal qualities will surely endear itself to the discerning public and ensure a successful future for the industry.

Jerseys, scarves, hats, gloves, fashion garments, underwear and outdoor thermal gear are just some of the clothing that is available around United States and the rest of the World today.

Here are the steps she said to follow:

1. Sort fleece, separating out short and coarse fibers.
2. Pick vegetable matter out by hand, then lightly tease open.
3. Using a sink or dishpan containing lukewarm water and a mild dishwashing detergent, enter 4-8 oz. of wool, pressing down into water. (no agitation)
4. Let soak 10 minutes.
5. Lift wool out of water, holding fibers from below, gently squeezing the entire mass. (do not wring)
6. Fill sink or dishpan with lukewarm water for rinse. Enter wool. (Never have water pour onto wool.)
7. Let soak 5 minutes.
8. Lift wool out of water, holding fibers from below, gently squeezing the entire mass. (do not wring)
9. Repeat rinse if water is dirty.
10. Spread wool onto a large towel and roll so that towel will absorb most of the water. Let sit 5 minutes.
11. Put wool onto a screen to air dry. Slant screen so that air can circulate. (do not put in the sun)
12. Store cleaned wool in brown paper bags, cardboard boxes or clear plastic bags with air holes.