18 Aug 2023
We are frequently asked about our decision to use alpaca instead of cashmere in our two Handwoven collections SIGNATURE and HERITAGE. There are multiple factors that lead to our decision to create our handwoven pieces in alpaca but the core factor is that we can source our alpaca fleeces here in the UK with complete traceability, right back to being able to name the alpaca who’s fleece we are using. The brand was established with sustainability at its core. This encompasses sourcing locally where possible to reduce our carbon footprint, to ensuring the animals who provide the fibre are well cared for and that the people who care for them are paid fairly. We can be 100% confident in this with our alpaca fibre whilst providing field to fabric traceability.
Scotland is well known for its thriving cashmere industry, but of course the raw cashmere fibre is mostly imported, often from China and Mongolia. Like wool, it is a natural fibre so absolutely is a sustainable fibre but not when compared to homegrown fibre.
Our alpaca pieces have been described as “ultra luxury,” with an exquisite appearance and an unbelievably soft touch. Similar to cashmere, alpaca is a natural fibre that exudes a sense of luxury. Not only does it possess exceptional softness, but it is also incredibly durable. Both alpaca and cashmere are hypoallergenic, as they contain no lanolin, and offer supreme softness. However, there are significant differences between the two.
Alpaca is a rarer and exclusive choice. There are approximately 5 million alpacas worldwide that are utilised for their fleeces, whereas there are around 700 million cashmere goats. Alpaca ranks second only to silk in terms of strength. It offers the same luxurious softness as cashmere, yet surpasses it in terms of durability and resilience, making our pieces true heritage treasures that will last a lifetime. Cashmere only comes in three natural colours whereas with alpaca, we have a choice of 22 so we have an extensive pallette without needing to use dye.
Alpaca possesses a unique texture that feels even softer when worn than it does to the touch. Much of its strength can be attributed to the longer length of its fibres compared to those of sheep and cashmere goats. Additionally, alpaca fibres are hollow, with an insulating core that quickly warms up and retains heat for longer periods. This natural insulation allows for effective temperature regulation through the air pockets in the fibres. Cashmere, on the other hand, lacks the same fibre structure and cannot provide the same level of warmth and performance. We are proud to source our alpaca sustainably from British farms, and we are now able to trace the individual alpacas from which our fleeces originate.
As the term “The Gold of the Andes” implies, the Incas held alpaca fibre in higher regard than even gold or silver. Without fail visitors to our beautiful Atelier comment on the unexpected softness and beautiful drape in our products, please do get in touch to book your own Private Appointment or browse our exclusive collections. Our SIGNATURE collection of one off alpaca pieces can be seen here and HERITAGE Handwoven here.
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