Weaving with Memories: A Handspun Alpaca Shawl in Dornik Twill

There’s something truly special about working with handspun yarn. Each strand carries the story of the fiber, the hands that spun it, and the journey it has taken before reaching my loom. This latest project—a shawl woven in luxurious, undyed alpaca—feels especially personal.

The yarn itself is handspun, meaning every shade and transition is a reflection of the alpaca’s natural coloring. No dyes, just pure, organic beauty. The gradients blend seamlessly, and because it’s handspun, the colors can be mixed and matched in endless ways during the spinning process. This makes each weaving project unique, a true one-of-a-kind piece.

Even more meaningful is where this yarn comes from—a dear friend, whose presence I feel in every pass of the shuttle. Weaving with fiber from someone I cherish makes this shawl even more special, as if she’s right here with me, thread by thread.

For this piece, I’m using a Dornik twill pattern, a structure that plays beautifully with the soft color transitions. The interplay between the twill lines and the natural hues gives the fabric a gentle movement, almost like ripples in sand. It’s mesmerizing to watch it grow on the loom.

Why Choose Alpaca?

Alpaca fiber is truly one of nature’s finest gifts. Unlike wool, it contains no lanolin, making it hypoallergenic and perfect for those with sensitive skin. It’s also incredibly soft—often compared to cashmere—but with added durability.

Here are a few reasons why alpaca is such an incredible fiber:

• Luxuriously Soft – Alpaca fiber has a smooth, silky feel that doesn’t itch like traditional wool. Even the most delicate skin can enjoy its warmth and comfort.

• Lightweight Yet Warm – Despite being feather-light, alpaca is known for its exceptional warmth. It has hollow fibers that trap heat, making it perfect for winter without feeling heavy or bulky.

• Moisture-Wicking & Breathable – Alpaca naturally repels moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable in varying temperatures.

• Durability & Longevity – Alpaca fiber is incredibly strong and resistant to pilling, meaning garments made from it can last for generations with proper care.

• Eco-Friendly & Sustainable – Alpacas have a lighter environmental footprint compared to other fiber-producing animals. Their soft hooves don’t damage the land, and they consume less water and food, making them a more sustainable choice.

This shawl will not only be a timeless piece but also an heirloom-quality garment that can be treasured for years. I can’t wait to share the finished piece with you all! Stay tuned for more updates as this shawl comes to life.