Nature provides us with a whole range of remarkable materials for our clothing. At best, they can be used to make jumpers and the like that are not only functional but also beautiful. One of these natural wonders is alpaca wool. Hardly any other material is so soft and cosy. No compromises need be made in terms of appearance, style or the desire for sustainability, because alpaca wool fulfils the highest demands. Reason enough to take a closer look at the path from trendy animal to fluffy clothing - using the example of our Peruvian partner APU KUNTUR. This much in advance: it is characterised by respect for nature and a focus on quality and sustainability.
The treasure of the Andes - Origin of the alpacas
They originate from the Andes in South America and have been kept and bred by indigenous communities for thousands of years - and have had a decisive influence on the development of this region. As relatives of camels, alpacas are peaceful animals that live together in herds. They only eat grass without damaging the roots, which protects the vegetation. In addition to their relaxed and lovable nature, it is above all their wool that makes alpaca breeding so popular. As alpacas naturally have to withstand extremely fluctuating temperatures, they have a special type of wool. This is soft and fine, but at the same time resistant and robust.
What makes alpaca wool so special for clothing?
If the fibre protects animals from cold and heat in equal measure, it can't be bad for clothing, can it? That's right. Alpaca fibre is the perfect thermal material, as it warms at low temperatures and dissipates accumulated heat when it's hot. It is also pleasantly soft and light. In contrast to other animal wools such as sheep's wool, the lanolin content (wool fat content) is very low. This ensures that the wool prevents unpleasant odours from forming for a long time, is antibacterial and even hypoallergenic. The alpaca fibre is hard-wearing and its dirt-repellent properties mean that it does not need to be cleaned often - which is why it can be described as easy-care. Annoying pilling is also reduced to a minimum. All in all, a sustainable natural fibre that you will enjoy for a long time.
By the way: Baby alpaca wool is particularly fine and silky - this is not the wool of a young animal, but the inner and therefore better protected wool layer of adult animals.
From alpaca to jumper - the path in 5 steps
There are many reasons to choose clothing made from alpaca wool. But what steps do the fibres go through before they wrap us in cosy, warm clothing?
- Shearing: Firstly, the wool is obtained in its raw form by shearing the alpaca. The welfare of the animals is the top priority here, which is why the process is extremely gentle.
- Cleaning: During cleaning, the natural fibre is freed from dust and other soiling and then dried and sorted
- Loosening: After cleaning, the dry wool is loosened by gently plucking it apart.
- Carding: The loose fibres are carded and smoothed for subsequent production, resulting in a fleece.
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Product manufacture: The corresponding garments are made from fleece and wool - sometimes after dyeing the fibres if a different colour is desired. APU KUNTUR also uses high-quality materials for finishing.
The result is craftsmanship at its best: high-quality, hypoallergenic clothing that is timelessly elegant. A cosy feeling to wear
Our partner APU KUNTUR
Because sustainability affects us all, the final product from APU KUNTUR includes the appreciative production process of all those involved. The alpacas are kept in a species-appropriate and environmentally friendly way. Production takes place in Peru itself, more precisely in Cusco. The employees lovingly produce the beautiful alpaca wool products by hand using high-quality knitting machines.
They can look forward to working conditions such as a light-flooded workplace, delicious food in the canteen and in-house childcare. The company's fair trade policy includes appropriate wages and above-average social benefits. For some years now, there has even been a training programme for deaf employees. The family-run company also only chooses suppliers who share a similar sense of responsibility as trading partners. In this way, the cycle of appreciation for people and animals is continued.
Sustainability of the Faedah Collection
An environmentally friendly and sustainable production method is important to us. For this reason, we are proud to be one of APU KUNTUR's trading partners. In addition to cosy clothing such as jackets and coats, jumpers and T-shirts made from alpaca wool, we also have other ethically valuable items of clothing in our range. For example, discover your comfortable and fair yoga gear from Indigo Luna or the powerful jewellery from the Soul Shine Island brand. They are all shipped in environmentally friendly repacks.
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in our shop meet high standards. Set an example for great products and a clear conscience!