Jacqueline Harp

Growing in the steel town of Cleveland, Ohio, the Rust Belt Fibershed draws on its industrious roots to deepen the influence of natural fibers.

Three fiber-centric partnerships are transforming the textile landscape by producing linen, a special, luxurious, plant-based option, in an eco-friendly manner.

If cotton is the king of cellulose fibers, then linen is the queen. In Northern California, farmers are working to bring back local sources of this fundamental fiber.

Sourcing yarn, fiber, and handwoven from places such as Puddin Ridge Fibers supports rescue llamas and alpacas, plus community-outreach events (not to mention yarn with remarkable color, drape, and softness).

When it comes to alpacas and the luxurious yarns produced from their fleeces, there is a whole world of natural colors to explore.

Whether you are working with commercially available yarn or small-batch yarns from a local alpaca grower, here are some tips to getting the most out of your alpaca projects.