Alpaca farming
At the present time, Per is the world's most important alpaca-farming country, where some 90% of the world's alpaca population is to be found and where a corresponding proportion of this sought-after fiber is produced.The economic activity of camelid raising in Per directly involves an estimated 170 000 families, who dwell in the Andean mountain chain. Most of them (95%) have herds of alpacas numbering between 50 and 100 animals.
Sorting
Known also as classification, this is a manual process where the fleece is separated into different fiber qualities, ranging from the higher grades used for luxuriously comfortable clothing down to the coarse grades which have a variety of other uses.
Scouring
The sorted alpaca fiber is scoured to remove dust and other impurities.
Carding/Combing
These processes eliminate vegetable matter such as straws and burrs and remove the shortest fibers as noils. The resulting product is a package of sliver known as a top
Hilatura
It is elaborated spun of different qualities, mixtures and titles.
Dyeing
Colors are applied by means of dyestuffs which do not damage the natural environment.
Weaving, knitting and making up
These are processes where the yarns are converted into either woven or knitted cloth and/or garments.Weaving, knitting and making up.
Sales
This is the link between the craftsmen, small- and medium-size businesses and the market.
