This article explains alpaca, and discusses the wonderful qualities and value it represents for people decorating their home, lodge or executive suite.

First of all, and to clear up any confusion, the word alpaca is used to refer not only to the animal, but also its wool, and its pelt. The wool is used to make clothing, while the pelts are used for a variety of quality home décor items such as rugs, throws, and wall hangings. The special qualities of alpaca make it highly desirable for these uses.

So why all the excitement about alpaca? Turns out, alpaca is really something special. For one thing, alpaca wool is three times stronger and seven times warmer than even Merino sheep’s wool. Raised at high altitudes in freezing cold, the alpaca has developed more thermal capacity in its fiber than almost any other animal, creating garments that offer featherweight warmth. Its fibers contain tiny curls that give it a soft cushiony feel and provide air pockets that create insulation and warmth. In addition, alpaca is naturally fire-retardant and since, unlike wool it contains no lanolin or other oils, it’s hypoallergenic. Dust mites don't like it, so they and their associated allergens stay away too. This lack of oils keeps dirt from sticking as well, so clothes and rugs, throws, and bedspreads made from alpaca stay cleaner.

Alpaca wool is ranked amongst the finest fibers by the fashion industry; alongside silk, mohair, and angora. It occurs naturally in an amazing variety of 22 different colors; from white, silver, creams, and ivories, to many browns, reds, grays, and total black. Alpaca fibers are straighter than sheep’s wool, not scratchy, and extremely rich and silky, with a fine luster. In fact, alpaca has a slippery, silky look and feel to put even fine cashmere to shame. Its combination of lightness, softness and warmth makes an alpaca rug, throw or bedspread a cloud-soft experience. And the strength of fine alpaca means that items made from it will remain an eye-attracting pleasure.

The alpacas varied color palette is skillfully wielded by native artisans to create dramatic designs, both abstract and realistic to suit a wide variety of tastes and decorative motifs. Completely natural and handmade, no two products made from alpaca pelts are exactly alike. Check out 100% natural alpaca and explore the decorating possibilities!

~ SoftRugs.com ~