Alpaca: Knitting Properties
Alpaca is a soft, warm, drapey fibre with no lanolin — making it suitable for those allergic to wool. It is silkier than wool with significant drape, but lacks wool's elasticity and memory.
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Drape vs structure
Alpaca drapes heavily because it lacks the crimp of wool fibres. Garments knit in 100% alpaca tend to grow with wear and may not hold their shape. For structured garments (sweaters, hats), blend alpaca with wool or use it for shawls and scarves where drape is welcome.
Warmth
Alpaca is warmer than wool by weight — about 30% warmer than merino at the same gauge. The hollow fibre core traps air for insulation.
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Hand-feel
Silkier than wool with no scratch. Alpaca is hypoallergenic for most wool-sensitive knitters. Pills less than merino due to longer fibre length.
Best uses
Drapey shawls and scarves. Lightweight cardigans. Blended (50/50) with wool for sweaters that need both warmth and structure. Avoid for socks (too slippery, too little memory) and tightly fitted garments (will stretch out).
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CYC | Craft Yarn Council |
Tips
- Blend alpaca with wool for structured garments.
- 100% alpaca is best for shawls and scarves where drape is welcome.
- Block lightly — heavy blocking exaggerates the drape.
In depth
Alpaca produces fabric that drapes more than wool because alpaca fibres lack the crimp that gives wool its bounce. This makes alpaca exceptional for shawls and scarves and tricky for sweaters — a 100% alpaca sweater will stretch with wear and may need to be blocked back to shape periodically.