ALPACA THE RARE SPECIALTY FIBRE

Alpacas have been domesticated for some 5,000 years, they were a cherished treasure of the ancient Inca civilization. The Incan Kings recognized the alpacas unique qualities and reserved its cloth for the exclusive use of their royal court. Alpacas are bred for their abundant quality fibre. Alpaca fleece is valuable because it combines so many commercial attributes into one fibre. It can be as soft as cashmere and warmer, stronger and lighter than wool.

With the exception of mohair, alpacas produce the strongest animal fibre in the world and unlike other fibres, its unique strength does not diminish as it becomes finer.

Traditionally, alpacas have been raised at high altitudes in the freezing- cold, consequently they have developed a high thermal capacity in their fibre. The fibre contains microscopic air pockets which create light weight garments with high insulation values.

Unlike sheep, alpacas do not produce lanolin but a substance called suint. This substance has a soap like quality which contributes to the fleece's water repellent properties.

Alpacas are unique in that no other animal, which produces fibre for textile purposes, produces such an enormous range of natural colors - from black and white to greys, subtle golden hues, and deep red sienna browns. Alpaca is found naturally in 22 distinct colors which can then be blended to make other custom shades.

Today's consumer searches for high quality, environmentally sound products made of naturally renewable resources. The Alpaca provides fibre just as it has for thousands of years, to create warm, colorful garments, soft to the touch. Classically styled alpaca sweaters and suits will last for generations.

In the fall of 1997, Alice started her own fibre business ALPACA PLUS INC., A Unique Fibre Studio . Alpaca Plus Inc. is dedicated to producing high quality garments made from fine Alpaca fibre as well as from other luxury fibres like silk, cashmere, mohair and merino wool. Alpaca Plus Inc. brings to you a wonderful variety of quality products, everything from soft as a sigh, one of a kind designer evening wear to winter beater, toe heater, alpaca felt insoles.

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