alpaca

We're often asked what the difference is between llamas and alpacas.  Both llamas and alpacas are south american camelids and they are related but definitely not the same.  

Here are 7 quick ways to tell the difference between an Alpaca and a Llama. 

When grading alpaca yarns for knitting, there are different classifications depending on what knitting association you reference. In this article I will highlight the most common ways we grade alpaca yarn so you can make the best choices when choosing alpaca for your knitting and crochet projects. 

Knit up a pair of toasty owl fingerless mittens and never choose between cute and smart again!

About 9 years ago my dear friend and neighbor on a nearby ranch stopped by to say hello and mentioned our neighbors down the road had Alpacas for sale. I asked her why she had not purchased one as she loved animals and rarely resisted the urge to bring home another animal to add to her “collection”.  She laughed and we scooped up my daughter Lauren and headed back down the road to see the alpacas.  The moment we saw the baby alpaca’s we were in love.

It’s tough to get knitters, spinners & crocheters to agree on anything-- let’s face it, we’re an opinionated bunch of people! Fiber lovers of all stripes get into heated arguments at our Idaho storefront: whose craft is easiest for beginners, which stitch is best for a breathtaking scarf, whether metal or wooden tools are better & under what conditions... But underneath all the lighthearted (or occasionally not-so-lighthearted!) squabbling, there’s one thing that draws us all together once more: an appreciation for fiber of true quality & value. That’s why we at Alpaca Direct are so passionate about crafting with alpaca yarn & rovings!

Protect your feet from cold, discomfort & blistering with a pair of carefully constructed Dahlgren socks from Alpaca Direct!

Come celebrate our yarn and apparel store opening in North Idaho!