Processing Fiber for the first time

Open Mon - Fri

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST

Custom Fiber Processing Mill for Alpaca, Llama, and Icelandic Fiber

Download our Brochure about fiber processing

Processing Fiber for the first time

This page is intended as a step by step tutorial for the first-timer in getting their fiber processed.

The first consideration is understanding your options for processing your fiber. To a large extent, this will depend upon what intent you have for the product once you receive it. Is it for personal use? Do you intend to sell it to others personally such as at fiber shows? Do you intend to sell it through an intermediary such as a yarn shop? If you are marketing it directly or indirectly, what are your customers wanting? It cannot be understated how important proper fiber harvesting (beginning at shearing) can be. Any lapse of quality control in this process will result in inferior product. Please refer to this Fibre Harvesting Code of Practice from Alpaca Canada.

Morning Star Fiber can help process your fiber into the product you're looking for.

Here are some of the options of products that we can help you with:

Minimally processed fiber in the form of "clouds", roving (loose or in bumps), batts or rug yarn.

Fiber processed into Felt sheets.

Fiber processed into yarn. We offer plyed yarn in various weights or in Lopi style. The spun yarn can be shipped to you in skeins, or cones.

Fiber processed and made into 'Paca Pillows.

Discuss with us further customization for greater artistic appeal.

Consider fiber dehairing.
Consider fiber blending.
Consider custom plying.

Getting your fiber ready to send to us.

Examine the staple (individual fiber) length. Processing to yarn requires a minimum staple length of 3". A percentage of 2-3" fiber can be tolerated for other kinds of processing. A consistent staple length results in a consistent end product.
Make sure your fiber is properly skirted.
For enhanced product quality and yield, consider having your fiber Certified Sorted™.
Place your fiber in a plastic bag with the neck loosely twisted allowing it to "breathe".
Place bagged fleece in a cardboard box with less than 108 inches girth.
Fill out the interactive pricing guide and submit online.
Call Morning Star Fiber and discuss any special custom processing requirements.
Print the form from the interactive pricing guide, fill out and place in the box with the fleece.
Send parcel post via US Postal Service, or other carrier of your choice.