In the high altitudes of the Andes, long before alpaca fiber became a favorite among handknitters, these gentle animals were prized by the Inca for something far more regal: their fleece. Reserved for royalty and woven into ceremonial garments, alpaca fiber was once known as “the fiber of the gods.” And it’s easy to see why.
Alpacas have been domesticated for over 6,000 years, primarily in what is now Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. Unlike their larger camelid cousins, llamas, alpacas were not bred for carrying loads—but rather for their luxurious coats. To this day, they remain a cornerstone of Andean textile traditions, and their fleece continues to enchant fiber artists around the world.
✧ The Two Types of Alpacas
There are two breeds of alpacas: Huacaya and Suri.
- Huacaya alpacas have a dense, crimped fleece that grows outward, creating a fluffy, cloud-like appearance. Their fiber behaves more like wool—elastic, lofty, and perfect for cozy garments that hold shape.
- Suri alpacas, on the other hand, grow long, silky locks that drape like waterfalls. Their fiber has minimal crimp and spins into a lustrous, fluid yarn—ideal for pieces that call for drape and elegance.
Each type offers its own kind of magic, and both are remarkably soft—typically finer than cashmere and warmer than sheep’s wool.
✧ What Makes Alpaca Fiber Special?
If you’ve ever held an alpaca yarn in your hands, you’ll know: it’s soft in a way that feels almost unreal. But there’s more to it than touch.
- Hypoallergenic: Alpaca fiber doesn’t contain lanolin, which makes it a dream come true for sensitive skin and those with wool allergies.
- Warmth without weight: Thanks to the hollow core of the fibers, alpaca traps warm air while staying incredibly light—perfect for layering pieces that don't feel bulky.
- Naturally strong: Despite its softness, alpaca is surprisingly durable, which means garments last longer and resist pilling.
- Sustainable: Alpacas are gentle grazers and efficient eaters, making them a more eco-friendly fiber source than many other livestock.
✧ Working with Alpaca
Alpaca yarns can behave differently from sheep’s wool. The lack of elasticity means sweaters made from 100% Alpaca can stretch out of shape. Pairing alpaca with wool, or using it in textured stitches and lacework helps maintain structure while showcasing its ethereal halo.
👉 Simatri is a new arrival at Sweet Meadow Knits 👉— a sport weight blend of 50% baby Alpaca and 50% fine wool, ideal for lightweight sweaters and cozy winter layers.
We especially love brushed alpaca blends like Cirro—a sportweight yarn with a cotton core that brings breathability and a subtle glow to the yarn. Whether knit solo, or held together with a complementary yarn, alpaca adds softness and soul to any project.
In Summary
Working with Alpaca is quiet luxury -- soft against the skin, warm against the wind, and always a joy on the needles. Whether you’re knitting a sweater to layer on cool evenings or a lightweight wrap that floats with every step, alpaca yarn carries with it a history of craftsmanship and beauty.
Happy Knitting!
