Specific fiber characteristics used for evaluation are diameter, uniformity, density, luster, staple length, amount of contamination, color (uniformity), tensile strength, crimp (or lack of), hand staple regeneration, yield, crinkle, fleece weight, ratio of secondary to primary follicles, blowout factor. Additional characteristics of concern to the commercial fiber industries are: high length to width ratio (fine & long), adequate strength, flexibility, cohesiveness (fibers will cling together), uniformity, purchase price, abrasion resistance, absorbency (moisture relating to comfort), shrinkage, wrinkle recovery, static buildup, sunlight resistance, flammability, elasticity, physical shape.
Llama fiber is a medulated, natural protein animal fiber with no lanolin or grease which is classified as a specialty or luxury fiber. Positive characteristics of llama fiber are fine, strong, comfortable, warm and lightweight (good warmth to weight ratio), available in 22 natural colors. Negative characteristics of llama fiber are little elasticity, moths love it, sunlight harms it.
The fiber and fleece characteristics that are of primary interest to llama breeders are the objective ones of fineness, uniformity, staple length or regeneration, color, volume or weight produced, especially prime fleece weight, & tensile strength; and the subjective ones of luster, hand, softness, ease of maintenance on the llama, and ease of processing. The characteristics of density and length (regeneration) are usually not exhibited together with fineness. Fine fleeces are usually not dense and they do not regenerate rapidly. Excessive density can affect the perceived handle of a fleece, making it feel coarser than it actually is.
Characteristics which have the most influence on the commercial value of a fleece are fineness and color. Fineness in any type of fiber has always been rewarded with higher prices. Commercial buyers and processors prefer and pay a premium for white because it can be dyed.
Hand spinners value fiber with a different set of qualities than commercial processors. Those characteristics which have the most influence on the handspinning value of a fleece are: cleanliness, luster, softness, and color. The multi-colored fleeces produced by appaloosas and paints are an asset in this market.
Last updated on December 4, 1996
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