"We are creating children's clothing that can be
passed down from generation to generation and will stand the test of time."
The origin of our yarn
Alpaca is a creation of nature and has been domesticated since ancient times. The Peruvian highlands were our original source of fiber, but quickly became our source of inspiration.
Olivimilly yarn is produced in the oldest mill in Peru. It is a pioneer and leading company in transforming this noble fiber into luxury yarn, working in harmony with nature, the environment and with the utmost respect for local people.
Alpaca Story
Alpacas are indigenous to the Peruvian highlands, where they have been domesticated since the time of the pre-lncan cultures.
Alpacas (lama pacos) are members of the South American camelid family which also includes Llamas, Guanacos and Vicuñas, to which they are closely related. Alpacas are indigenous to the Peruvian highlands. There are an estimated 3.5 to 4 million Alpacas in South America, and about 95% of them are found in the Southern regions of Peru.
Alpacas are bred at altitudes ranging from 2,500 to over 4,500 metres above sea level, where they have to withstand temperatures that fluctuate between +30ºC to -20ºC in a single day and survive on a special low-protein diet based on natural grasses found on the moorelands. Alpacas are shorn every 18 months, from November to March, yielding about 2 to 3 kilograms of fibre per animal.
Nature could not have designed a better natural insulating fibre.
Alpacas survive on a low protein diet based on natural vegetation typically found on high altitude moorlands. They graze extensively rather than intensively.
Indigenous people from our Andes Mountains obtain the high quality Alpaca fibre every 12 months during shearing season (November through March) causing no harm to the Alpacas.
Alpaca fibre is a natural hair made of protein and, as such, is naturally biodegradable when disposed and blends back into the earth within a relatively short period of time. In contrast, synthetic and other man-made fibres take very long time to degrade and have a negative impact on our environment.
Natural yarn colors
Once the fibre is collected it is then hand sorted by experienced women, enabling us to obtain 15 natural and undyed shades , which can also later be dyed.
Alpaca fibre is a natural hair made of protein and, as such, is naturally biodegradable when disposed and blends back into the earth within a relatively short period of time. In contrast, synthetic and other man-made fibres take very long time to degrade and have a negative impact on our environment.
Why Alpaca Yarn?
We care for our relationship with nature and with each other. We want to let the world know that Alpaca is the natural option, and that not everything has to be made of artificial materials.
Alpaca not only feels good next to your skin, but it is also prized for its thermal propertries, fineness, silkiness, softness and durability (it has a longer shelf-life than merino wool and any other fibres).
