Llamas are related to the Alpacas, but are larger and taller. Llama fiber, like alpaca, comes in a variety of natural colors such as, white, fawn, cinnamon, silver gray, and black.
Characteristics
• Natural, Animal
• No lanolin or grease
• Fiber Lightweight,
• Soft, less elasticity than wool
• Luxurious
• Very durable
• Hand-washable or dry-cleanable
• Little static, no pilling
• Dyes well
• Blends extremely well with other fibers
Preparing Llama For Spinning
Hardcarders
Llama can be handcarded into rolags. It is best to use handcarders with fine teeth. Do not over card it or you will cause lumps to form (unless of course your intention is to spin a textured yarn).
Drumcarders
Use a drumcarder with fine teeth to create large batts for spinning.
Spinning Llama is the same as spinning alpaca.
End Uses For Llama Yarn
Llamas have both outer guard hairs and an undercoat of fiber. The guard hairs are longer, thicker, straight, and wiry. They should be pulled out or combed out of a shorn fleece, because it will resist spinning, dyeing, and felting. Good for: pillows, rugs, ropes, and wall hangings.
The down fibers of the Llama are shorter, softer, and wavy with some crimp, and will produce a soft yarn. Good for: hats, scarves, shawls, sweaters, socks, etc
