Top 10 Best Alpaca Yarns for Handknitting: Where to Find Them in 2025:
1. Knitbrary – Authentic Peruvian yarns with soul
2. Blue Sky Fibers – Classic softness with a modern twist
3. The Fibre Co. – Alpaca blends with depth and texture
4. Shibui Knits – Minimalist luxury with alpaca edge
5. Juniper Moon Farm – Earthy, warm, and deeply comforting
6. Pascuali – Sustainable, ethical, and exquisitely soft
7. Andean Mist by Berroco – Light as air, soft as a cloud
8. Misti Alpaca – Ultra-soft and deeply indulgent
9. Rowan Selects – Alpaca elegance, British style
10. Illimani Yarn – Ethical softness with a story
Alpaca yarns for handknitting aren’t just about materials, they’re about meaning.
They carry warmth, yes, but also intention, tradition, and a quiet kind of beauty that doesn’t shout to be noticed.
Not all yarns are created equal.
Alpaca is in a league of its own, softer than wool, warmer than cashmere, and naturally breathable.
Once you’ve worked with it, you don’t go back.
There’s something deeply satisfying about handknitting with a fiber that feels alive in your hands.
Every stitch tells a story.
Every garment becomes personal.
Every piece holds the time you gave it.
And when the yarn comes from noble fibers like Royal Alpaca or the rare and luxurious Vicuña, what you create isn’t just a sweater or a scarf, it’s a legacy.
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes alpaca yarn so special for handknitting, how to choose the right kind, and why some fibers are worth the patience they require.
Let’s begin.
Top 10 Best Alpaca Yarns for Handknitting: Where to Find Them
1. Knitbrary – Authentic Peruvian yarns with soul
If you're looking for alpaca yarns for handknitting, it helps to see what true craftsmanship looks like once those fibers come to life.
Knitbrary doesn’t sell yarn, it celebrates it.
Their garments are a perfect example of what happens when the finest alpaca fibers meet masterful hands and timeless design.
Each piece is hand-knitted in Peru, using Royal Alpaca and, in rare collections, the extraordinary Vicuña. These aren’t just soft materials, they’re some of the most luxurious natural fibers in the world, chosen not for trend, but for meaning.
Instead of fast fashion, Knitbrary embraces slow creation.
No factories. No shortcuts. Just pure, noble yarns, shaped into pieces meant to be worn, loved, and passed on.
If you're curious about what makes alpaca yarns so special, Knitbrary’s collections are a beautiful place to understand their true potential, not by the skein, but by the story each garment tells.
2. Blue Sky Fibers – Classic softness with a modern twist
Known for their commitment to natural fibers and eco-conscious practices, Blue Sky Fibers offers a beautiful selection of 100% baby alpaca yarns that are a dream to knit with.
Their yarns are soft, smooth, and available in a wide range of subtle, earthy tones, perfect for creating pieces that feel both classic and contemporary.
What stands out is the consistency.
Each skein has that buttery glide that makes handknitting a pleasure, whether you’re crafting a lightweight wrap or a cozy winter sweater.
Ideal for knitters who want quality, color and conscience in every project.
3. The Fibre Co. – Alpaca blends with depth and texture
The Fibre Co. is known for its thoughtful blends, and their alpaca options are no exception.
Combining baby alpaca with other natural fibers like silk, merino, or linen, their yarns bring a rich texture and subtle drape to handknitted pieces.
The result? Garments that are lightweight but warm, elegant yet everyday-wearable.
A great choice if you love complex colorways and a slightly more rustic finish, these yarns tell a story with every stitch.
4. Shibui Knits – Minimalist luxury with alpaca edge
Shibui Knits takes a modern, design-forward approach to yarn, and their alpaca blends fit right into that philosophy.
Their fibers are sleek, soft, and incredibly versatile, perfect for layering or combining with other yarns for added depth.
Whether it’s a soft halo from a brushed alpaca or the smoothness of a clean blend, Shibui is made for knitters who want to create with intention, and with a look that’s effortlessly elevated.
Their color palette? Understated, tonal, and totally wearable.
5. Juniper Moon Farm – Earthy, warm, and deeply comforting
If you’re drawn to cozy textures and natural tones, Juniper Moon Farm’s alpaca yarns will feel like home.
Their Herriot line, made from 100% baby alpaca, is soft in the hand and full of gentle warmth, ideal for cold-weather garments and accessories that hug the skin.
They focus on simplicity done well, nothing flashy, just beautifully spun fibers that let your knitting speak for itself.
Think fireside knitting, chunky scarves, and heirloom cardigans with soul.
6. Pascuali – Sustainable, ethical, and exquisitely soft
Pascuali is all about luxury with a conscience. Their alpaca yarns come from carefully managed farms in Peru, with a focus on ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility.
What you get is yarn that’s incredibly soft, long-lasting, and perfect for delicate yet durable garments.
They offer several options, from 100% alpaca to alpaca-silk blends, all in naturally dyed or undyed tones that keep the integrity of the fiber intact.
Ideal for knitters who want their projects to feel good in every possible way.
7. Andean Mist by Berroco – Light as air, soft as a cloud
If you're after a yarn that feels like a whisper against the skin, Andean Mist might be your match.
This blend of baby alpaca and silk offers a subtle sheen and a soft halo that adds elegance to any handknitted piece.
It’s incredibly light, making it perfect for airy shawls, delicate sweaters, or layering pieces with just the right touch of warmth.
The color palette leans toward soft neutrals and gentle pastels, ideal for knitters who love refined simplicity with a luxurious finish.
8. Misti Alpaca – Ultra-soft and deeply indulgent
Few yarns deliver the pure softness of Misti Alpaca.
Using some of the finest alpaca fibers available, their yarns are a go-to for projects that need to feel extra special.
From fingering to chunky weights, the textures are consistent, the colors are rich, and the softness is simply unforgettable.
Whether you’re making a baby blanket or a next-to-skin sweater, this is the yarn you reach for when you want comfort that doesn’t compromise on beauty.
9. Rowan Selects – Alpaca elegance, British style
Rowan is known for its timeless aesthetic, and their Selects line featuring alpaca stays true to that vision.
It’s smooth, warm, and refined, perfect for garments with clean lines and soft structure.
Think elegant cardigans, cozy ribbed hats, or understated layering pieces.
What makes it stand out is the balance, not too rustic, not too polished, just beautifully made yarn that does what it promises: makes your handknits look and feel effortlessly elevated.
10. Illimani Yarn – Ethical softness with a story
Illimani works closely with indigenous communities in the Andes, bringing to market some of the most exquisite alpaca and llama yarns in limited, small-batch collections.
Their yarns are unbelievably soft, often left undyed to preserve their natural beauty, and perfect for slow, thoughtful projects where quality is everything.
This is yarn with heart.
Every skein supports traditional craftsmanship and local economies, and that makes every stitch feel even more meaningful.
Ideal for knitters who believe that how something is made matters just as much as what it becomes.
Alpaca Yarns for Handknitting: natural luxury for your next project
There’s a reason why alpaca yarns for handknitting have such a devoted following, once you knit with them, it’s hard to go back.
Soft, warm, breathable, and endlessly elegant, alpaca fibers offer a rare combination of comfort and sophistication that makes them a favorite among discerning knitters.
Here’s what sets them apart.
1. Supreme softness and texture – especially baby and royal alpaca
Not all alpaca is created equal.
Baby alpaca comes from the animal’s first shearing, making it incredibly soft to the touch.
Royal alpaca takes it a step further, it’s taken from the finest part of the adult fleece, representing just the top 10% of the fiber.
The result?
Yarn that feels silky, light, and luxurious, perfect for garments that rest gently against the skin and elevate even the simplest stitches.
2. Excellent insulation without heaviness
Alpaca fibers have a naturally hollow core, which helps trap heat efficiently.
That means they keep you warm, but without the bulk.
This makes alpaca yarns perfect for crafting lightweight yet cozy garments, such as elegant sweaters, soft shawls, and tailored coats.
You get comfort and elegance, all in one.
3. Hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin
Unlike wool, alpaca doesn’t contain lanolin, the natural oil that can cause irritation for some people.
That makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin or wool allergies.
It’s soft, breathable, and rarely itchy, making it a safe and comfortable choice for baby garments, scarves, and next-to-skin knits.
4. Naturally durable, with a beautiful drape
Alpaca yarn isn’t just soft, it’s strong.
The fibers have a high tensile strength, which means they resist pilling and wear better over time than many other natural fibers.
On top of that, they offer a fluid drape that makes every piece fall just right, whether it’s a relaxed cardigan, a shawl, or a structured coat.
It’s the kind of fiber that doesn’t just look beautiful on the needles, it holds its shape and charm for years to come.
Alpaca Yarns for Handknitting natural luxury for your next project
There’s a very good reason why alpaca yarns for handknitting have become a top choice for knitters around the world.
Beyond their undeniable beauty, these yarns offer a level of comfort, elegance, and performance that is hard to match with other fibers.
When you choose alpaca yarn, you’re not just selecting a material, you’re investing in natural luxury that elevates every stitch, every project, and every garment you create.
1. Supreme softness and texture especially baby and royal alpaca
One of the most celebrated qualities of alpaca yarns is their extraordinary softness.
Baby alpaca comes from the first shearing of the animal and is prized for being incredibly smooth and gentle against the skin.
Then there is Royal Alpaca, which is even more exclusive. It is taken from the finest 10 percent of the adult alpaca’s fleece, making it exceptionally fine, silky, and luxurious.
This level of softness means your handknitting projects will feel like a second skin, delicate, warm, and indulgent.
Working with these fibers turns ordinary knitting into an experience of pure pleasure, where texture and feel are just as important as the finished look.
For anyone who values tactile beauty in their handknitting, baby and royal alpaca yarns are simply unmatched.
2. Excellent insulation without heaviness
Another reason alpaca yarns are so beloved is their amazing thermal properties.
The fiber’s natural hollow core traps heat effectively, offering superior insulation that keeps you warm even in the coldest weather.
What’s remarkable is that this warmth comes without unnecessary weight or bulk.
This makes alpaca yarns perfect for crafting lightweight yet cozy garments, such as elegant sweaters, soft shawls, and tailored coats.
Instead of feeling weighed down by thick layers, knitters enjoy pieces that offer breathable warmth and comfort, ideal for layering or wearing on their own.
In short, alpaca yarn delivers the best of both worlds, insulation that works and a fabric that moves freely.
3. Hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin
Alpaca yarns are naturally hypoallergenic, which is a major advantage over other animal fibers like wool. For those concerned about whether alpaca fiber is itchy, rest assured it’s generally soft and gentle on the skin.
They lack lanolin, the substance in sheep’s wool that often causes itching or allergic reactions, making them ideal for hypoallergenic clothing.
For those with sensitive skin, allergies, or who simply want the softest yarn next to their body, alpaca is a fantastic choice.
Its smooth, silky texture means it rarely irritates, making it especially suitable for baby clothes, scarves, hats, and other garments worn close to the skin.
Choosing alpaca yarn means comfort without compromise, you get softness, warmth, and a fiber that respects your skin.
4. Naturally durable with a beautiful drape
While softness is a hallmark of alpaca yarns, durability is just as impressive.
The fibers have a high tensile strength, which means they resist pilling and wear better than many other natural yarns.
This durability ensures that your handknitted pieces will stay beautiful and maintain their shape over time, becoming cherished wardrobe staples rather than fast-fashion throwaways.
Another key benefit is alpaca’s fluid drape, garments knitted with alpaca yarn flow gracefully, enhancing the silhouette with an elegant, natural fall.
Whether you’re making a relaxed cardigan, a sophisticated coat, or a delicate shawl, alpaca yarn adds a layer of refinement and longevity that few fibers can match.
In every stitch, you’re knitting with a fiber that combines luxury, resilience, and timeless beauty.
This makes alpaca yarns the ideal choice for anyone who values slow fashion and sustainable, lasting style.
Why handknitters are switching to alpaca yarns
More and more handknitters are turning to alpaca yarns for good reasons.
One big factor is the growing slow fashion movement.
Knitters want to create pieces that last, that carry meaning, and that respect the environment.
Alpaca yarn fits perfectly here.
It’s a natural fiber that comes from animals raised in harmony with their surroundings, often sourced through traditional, artisanal methods.
This connection to nature and heritage makes alpaca yarns a favorite for those who value quality over quantity.
Another reason is the desire for better materials.
Many knitters are no longer satisfied with quick, trendy projects.
They want garments with heirloom quality, pieces that can be worn, loved, and passed down for generations, like alpaca socks that are the coziest choice for cold-weather comfort.
Alpaca yarn offers this through its exceptional softness, durability, and timeless elegance.
It’s the perfect fiber to craft something truly special.
Common myths about alpaca yarns
Despite all the benefits, some myths about alpaca yarns still linger.
Let’s clear up the most common ones.
1. “They’re too delicate to work with”
Many think alpaca yarns are fragile or hard to knit.
The truth is, high-quality alpaca yarns are strong and resilient.
They hold up well through knitting and wearing, especially when spun and treated properly.
With a little care, you can create stunning, lasting pieces without worry.
2. “Alpaca yarns are itchy”
This is a widespread misconception, often confused with rougher wools.
In reality, baby alpaca and royal alpaca yarns are incredibly soft and gentle.
They lack lanolin, which is usually what causes itchiness in wool.
For most people, alpaca yarn feels smooth and comfortable right against the skin, even for sensitive wearers.
3. “They don’t block well for detailed knitting”
Some believe alpaca yarns don’t hold shapes well after blocking.
But alpaca has a beautiful natural drape that enhances the flow of any garment.
While it may not be as stiff as wool, it still responds well to gentle blocking.
It’s perfect for projects where you want soft elegance rather than rigid structure.
Alpaca yarns offer a combination of beauty, comfort, and durability that makes them a top choice for handknitters who want to invest in timeless, meaningful pieces.
Expert insight: why artisan alpaca yarns make all the difference
When it comes to alpaca yarns, not all are created equal.
What truly sets the best apart is the value of handspun yarn from traditional regions.
These yarns are crafted by skilled artisans who use techniques passed down through generations.
The process is slow and deliberate, preserving the natural qualities of the fiber while enhancing its strength and softness.
This kind of yarn has a depth and character that machine-spun fibers simply can’t match.
It carries the story of the land, the animals, and the people who made it.
Knitbrary is deeply committed to supporting this generational knowledge in fiber arts.
By working closely with artisan communities in Peru, they help keep these traditions alive.
This connection ensures that every piece made from their alpaca yarn reflects authenticity, respect, and care.
It’s more than just luxury, it’s a celebration of heritage woven into every stitch.
Final thoughts: why alpaca yarn should be your go-to for handknitting
If you’re looking for a fiber that combines softness, durability, and timeless beauty, alpaca yarn is the natural choice.
Its luxurious feel, excellent warmth, and hypoallergenic qualities make it perfect for all kinds of projects.
Choosing alpaca means embracing a slow fashion philosophy, valuing quality over quantity and honoring the craftsmanship behind each thread.
For handknitters who want to create pieces with meaning, longevity, and elegance, alpaca yarn is more than just a material.
It’s the heart of a truly special project.
Knitbrary: From Andes to Needles
Knitbrary’s story begins high in the Andes, where alpacas live freely across vast, rugged landscapes.
Here, the finest fibers are carefully gathered, prized for their softness, warmth, and natural beauty.
But the journey from the mountains to your hands is what truly makes Knitbrary special.
Every piece is crafted with patience and skill, blending centuries-old artisan techniques with a modern, timeless design.
Their commitment to slow fashion means no shortcuts, just dedication to creating garments that last a lifetime.
By honoring the traditions of Peruvian weaving communities, Knitbrary connects you directly to a rich cultural heritage.
The result is more than just clothing, it’s a story you wear, woven from the essence of the Andes all the way to your needles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is alpaca yarn good for beginners in handknitting?
Absolutely. Alpaca yarn is soft and easy to work with, making it a great choice for knitters at any level.
Its smooth texture helps stitches glide easily, which can make learning more enjoyable.
Plus, it creates beautiful, luxurious finished pieces that keep beginners motivated.
How do I care for garments made with alpaca yarn?
Garments made from alpaca yarn need gentle care to keep them looking their best.
It’s best to hand wash them in cold water with mild detergent and lay flat to dry.
Avoid wringing or twisting to prevent damage, and store them folded to maintain their shape.
What’s the difference between baby alpaca and royal alpaca?
Baby alpaca comes from the first shearing of the alpaca, resulting in a fiber that’s incredibly soft and smooth.
Royal alpaca is even finer and rarer, taken from the top 10% of the adult fleece.
It offers an exceptional level of softness, warmth, and durability, truly a luxury fiber.
Does alpaca yarn shrink when washed?
Alpaca yarn can shrink if washed improperly.
To avoid shrinkage, always use cold water and gentle hand washing techniques.
Machine washing or hot water can cause the fibers to felt and shrink.
Where does Knitbrary source their alpaca fibers from?
Knitbrary sources their alpaca fibers directly from the high Andes in Peru.
They work closely with local communities who raise alpacas in natural, free-roaming environments.
This ensures the fibers are of the highest quality and that traditional, sustainable practices are preserved.