Alpaca anyone?

Years ago, I met an alpaca named Andrew (pictured) at a farm. I was covering the farm for a newspaper article I was writing. Andrew was a "resident." He was beautiful, curious, and quite a character, but he loved to spit! I have since learned most alpacas have a tendency to spit. Evidently, it's something they do when they feel threatened or stressed. Maybe it was the camera? Also, alpacas sometimes spit at each other when competing for food.

That aside, these creatures have beautiful fleeces, which turn into lovely yarn. I find both the texture and the colors are wonderful for knitting. Alpaca fleece naturally comes in 22 shades, ranging from black and silver to gray and white. When spun together, a large variety of colors can be produced.

Just this weekend I visited Y Knot Alpacas in Germansville, Pa. Carl and JoAnne Givier have been raising alpacas on their property since 1998. They currently have 19 alpacas who they care for. JoAnne has a beautiful room in their home filled with yarn, apparel and home products--everything alpaca.

I purchased a tan Huacaya/Suri blend. It is named after the alpacas it comes from, Wizard & Sparkler. I can't wait to knit something spectacular!