Some simple tips to help prepare your Alpaca fleece:

1. Always ensure that when you have your Alpacas shorn that you split your fleece up into different bags (Saddle in one bag with Legs & Neck in a separate one).

2. Generally only the Saddle is good for processing as the Legs & Neck are usually too short & coarse.

3. Once you have the fleece (saddle portion only), spread it out on a table or wire screen.

4. Pull it apart (ensure you have dry hands & the table is dry).

5. Shake to loosen any sand or large particles of dirt.

6. Remove any coarse pieces.

7. Grab handfuls at a time & run your hands through the fleece & pick out any burrs or seeds.

8. Discard any vegetation matter / dirt in the bin.

9. The more you get out at this stage the better for everyone!

10. Try & use good quality clear plastic bags when storing as these will not only last longer but it’s easier to tell what’s in them.

11. Do not place any moth balls inside the bag with the fleece (it will make the fleece un-processable).

12. Tie the bag tightly to ensure no bugs can get in.