• Alpaca Fur Rugs
• Alpaca Teddy Bears

What is an Alpaca?

The alpaca is an animal originally from the high altitudes of the Andes. They are a close relatives of the lama and belong to the camelidae family, from which camels are from. There are around 3.5 million alpacas worldwide with 3 million living in the Peruvian region. The alpaca possesses one of the most luxurious and fine fibers in the whole world. Since the Inca times the alpaca fleece was use to make fine clothing, and was believe to have had some monetary value, as gold has today . Nowadays, local farmer of this region raise these animals to profit form its valuable fiber, which is for many the main source of income.

Now, the first question that cames to mind when we talk about any kin of fur , is of course, why kill animals for their skin. Surprisingly, this animals are not harm at all. Alpaca rugs are made with fur obtain from alpacas that have died from natural causes, so no animals are killed. there are two main reasons to support this fact. First, alpacas live in high altitudes, reaching more than 4000 meters above sea level. In this part of the world, the temperatures are very harsh and fatal for these animals. Second, alpacas are worth more alive than dead. So it would not make any sense to raise them to be kill for their fur.

What else can we find favorable about alpaca rugs?

Hypoallergenic : Alpaca fur or fleece contains no lanolin, which is the natural oil segregated by other animals like sheep to repel water. This chemical, along with the artificial agents use to remove it, have sometimes allergic reactions on humans. This is not he case with the alpaca since alpaca fibers are naturally water repellent.

100% natural : Alpaca fur can be found in around 22 different colors in it's natural state, with colors ranging from white, to brown, to gray to black. This unique characteristic , not seen in other animals that provide fiber, is a great advantage because it gives the artisan more possibilities to create beautiful works of art without the use of artificial colors.

Thermal properties : Each alpaca fiber contains microscopic airbags that work as thermal insulators, which maintain warm temperatures when cold and cool temperatures when hot. Moreover, alpaca fur has low moisture absorption and extraordinary wicking properties, meaning that it takes moisture away from the fur, where it is able to evaporate. This will prevent your skin from sweating when in contact with the rug. This creates a comfortable and nice feel at all times.

Easy to maintain : Alpaca fur 's natural water repellent properties will prevent it from easily been stain by liquids. Also, low static electricity emission properties will make it hard to attract dust or debris.

These handmade alpaca rugs came in awide vareity of desing, sizes and shapes, giving you, many alternatives to choose from. Also, this fur pieces can not only be use as area rugs, but as bedside rugs, fireeplace rug, wall hangings and confortable bedspreads. Give them a try and see for yourself , why alpaca fur is so great.