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Llama Fiber Info
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Collecting Fiber
Almost all llama fiber is useable, whether it is coarse for rugs, guard hair used
for rope or fly tying, or fine for next-to-the-skin garments. We use a variety of
methods to collect the fiber, some more time-consuming than others.
All the llamas are sheared or clipped in April and those with heavy wool
are sheared again in August. This allows time for the wool to grow out
enough for the fairly mild winter. I prefer to shear in a small pen where
the llama can walk around or eat while I’m working. This is less stressful
on both of us.
- I like the not-smooth look of all over hand shearing. This is done on the
llamas that aren’t used to the noise of electric clippers. Hand shears
also make noise and if the llama is too nervous, I just use scissors.
- Clipping is fast and the way to get a smooth look, but it does take
practice to avoid second cuts of fiber.
- Brushing is time-consuming but yields a finer, softer fiber because no
guard hair is collected. If it’s carefully done this is a good way to bond
with your critter, and it helps keep them from rubbing on the fences.
- Walk the pastures and pick up shed fiber. Pull out the debris before
storing it. If there’s too much debris in the wool, I leave it for the
birds.
Because I use the collected fiber for spinning, I flick open the fiber with a
comb to remove any debris and pull out the guard hair. This is time-consuming
but the resulting fiber is ready to spin or card, depending on the project. Then
the fiber is stored in paper bags for later use.
For more information on llama fiber, click on this link:
ILR Fiber Brochure #9
© Charlene Peck Braun 2011 |
