Conscious home pieces, curated with natural and recycled materials
Sustainable Materials
We strongly believe that working with sustainable materials like Alpaca, wool, and recycled polyamide is a conscious and eco-friendly path towards both preserving our environment and delivering exceptional quality. Our commitment revolves around respecting the inherent qualities of these materials, using them in ways that pay homage to traditional practices while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship.
​
At Sierra Home, we're passionate about sharing the wonders of a unique, sustainable and remarkable material, cherished for centuries by the communities of the Andes, the Alpaca Fiber. Join us as we explore the history, unique properties, and sustainability of alpaca fiber, and discover why it's the cornerstone of our SERIES ONE collection.
Alpaca Fiber
The alpaca is a member of the camelid family, alongside llamas, guanacos, and vicuñas. For over 2,000 years, it has been a loyal provider of sustenance and a source of inspiration for its caretakers.
​
All alpaca wool fibers are extremely soft as a result of the small diameter of each fiber strand, and alpaca fiber is five times warmer and stronger than sheep’s wool due to the air pockets in the fiber, which allows it to trap and contain more heat. Alpaca fiber is considered extremely luxurious from it’s soft and durable nature, making it a fixture for winter wear clothing. Its thermal qualities, biodegradability, and hypoallergenic properties place it in a privileged position among the most cherished and sought-after noble fibers in the textile world.
​
​
They’re gentle
Alpacas nibble only the tops of grasses and other plants; they do not rip plants out of the ground, allowing vegetation to grow back.
No footprint
Unlike goats and sheep, which have sharp hooves that damage pasture and soil, alpacas have paws that leaves no trace behind.
​
Natural environment
Alpacas roam free in their natural habitats supporting biodiversity. Living high in the Andes, they require far less food and water than goats and sheep.
But, what makes alpaca so sustainable?
And, Are Alpacas Good For The Environment?
Shortly, yes.
​
The alpaca lives in semi-freedom at altitudes exceeding 2,500 meters and thrives in herds. There are two varieties: the Huacayo (with curled fleece) and the Suri (with straight fleece). Sheared every 18 months, alpacas enable their caretakers to preserve the ecosystem and maintain sustainable agriculture practices.
​
Interestingly, the alpaca's eco-friendly attributes are quite remarkable and may offer some surprises. Unlike other natural fibers that is usually associated, such as cashmere and merino wool, the alpaca has evolved in harmony with its environment in several key ways.
Firstly, alpacas possess padded paws that put minimal pressure on the ground, leaving behind barely a trace. This stands in contrast to goats and sheep, whose sharp hooves usually damage soil and contribute to desertification. Moreover, alpacas graze selectively, nibbling on the tips of grasses and plants, which promotes regenerative agriculture. In contrast, goats and sheep often uproot vegetation, disrupting the landscape. Additionally, alpacas require less food and water than their counterparts, yet yield more fiber per shearing session. While it takes four goats to produce a single cashmere sweater, one alpaca can provide enough fiber for four to five sweaters.
Finally, alpacas exhibit communal dung piles strategically located away from their feeding and drinking areas. This waste is later utilized as fertilizer, completing a sustainable cycle within their ecosystem.
Why Alpaca Fiber?
Thermoregulating
It help your body regulate its temperature efficiently
Odor-resistant
Naturally resists body odor
Hypoallergenic
It has little likelihood of causing an allergic response
Moisture-wicking
It draws moisture like sweat from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable
Extremely Soft
As soft as cashmere
Very Light
3x lighter than sheep’s wool
Highly durable
Material made to last in time
