White Violet Farm Fiber Research Project

2000 Annual Report for FNC00-291

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 2000: $5,000.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2001
Matching Non-Federal Funds: $4,000.00
Region: North Central
State: Indiana
Project Coordinator:
Ann Sullivan
White Violet Center

White Violet Farm Fiber Research Project

Summary

A major challenge of alpaca production is finding creative ways of processing and manufacturing the fiber in order to ensure individual breeder success, industry success and growth, and community economic health and welfare.

Alpaca fiber is highly marketable because of its softness, warmth, strength, and durability.

Objective: To research the feasibility of processing alpaca fiber in a way that will positively impact the economy by providing employment opportunities to the local community.

The producer located hand spinners, weavers, and seamstresses to mentor interested community members.

Results: Fifteen people devoted two to five hours each week for 18 months to learn spinning, weaving, and knitting skills.

The producer estimated start-up costs to be around $200,000.