For those who spin not just for function but for beauty and meaning, guanaco fibre from the Peak District is more than a fibre. It’s a conversation with nature, a touch of the Andes in English hills, and an opportunity to create heirloom-quality textiles with soul.

Guanaco fibre holds its own among the world’s most luxurious spinning fibres — and in some ways, it outshines them.

Softness & Fineness: Guanaco fibre has a diameter of just 12–18 microns, making it finer than cashmere (typically 14–19 microns) and second only to vicuña in softness. This ultra-fine texture gives it a buttery handfeel that spinners adore, especially for next-to-skin garments.

Warmth & Weight: Like other camelids (alpaca, llama, vicuña), guanaco fibre has a hollow core that traps heat, offering exceptional warmth without bulk. It’s warmer than sheep’s wool and comparable to qiviut (muskox down), but with a lighter drape.

Hypoallergenic & Lanolin-Free: Unlike sheep’s wool, guanaco fibre contains no lanolin, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, like alpaca and bison down.

Spinability: Once dehaired (to remove the coarse outer guard hairs), guanaco fibre is easy to spin, with a lofty, elastic quality that lends itself to both woolen and worsted techniques. It’s less slippery than silk, less prone to felting than angora, and more forgiving than mohair.

Rarity & Price: Guanaco fibre is extremely rare, especially outside South America. Its scarcity and the ethical, low-yield harvesting process make it more expensive than alpaca or cashmere — but for hand spinners seeking a truly special experience, this doesn't disappoint.

If you’re looking for a fibre that combines softness, sustainability, and a story, guanaco is a dream on the wheel. Visit our fibre shop here and indulge yourself.