Andean Treasure DK

Andean Treasure DK is 100% baby alpaca, with 110 yards (101 meters) in each 50-gram ball. It first appeared in 2005 as one of Knit Picks' first exclusive luxury yarns, and it has remained a favorite ever since.

Baby alpaca is warm, soft and drapey, with a gentle halo that develops over time. The fabric is light for its warmth and feels gentle against the skin. The colors are heathered, with names like Aegean Sea Heather and Horchata Heather.

It suits knitters who want warm, soft accessories and garments, and who want the comfort of alpaca at an accessible price. A ball or two is enough for a hat or a pair of mitts.

Best for

• Hats, mitts and cowls
• Soft scarves and shawls
• Lightweight sweaters with drape
• Gifts for people with sensitive skin

Working with it

Use US 3–5 needles for 6 stitches per inch. Alpaca has little elasticity, so ribbing won't snap back like wool; go down a needle size for cuffs and brims, or try a twisted rib to help them hold. Garments can lengthen over time, so swatch, wash and let the swatch hang before measuring. Our merino vs alpaca guide explains the differences, and the yarn estimator will help with quantities.

Care

The catalog doesn't give care instructions. Alpaca is generally hand washed in cool water with a gentle wool wash, pressed out in a towel and dried flat. Avoid hanging, as alpaca can stretch.