Popping To The Local Yarn Shop

‘Nosy couldn't come, so they sent you.’  Mum.

Somewhere in the southeast corner of Northumberland, in a not too distant field, something beyond the hedge caught my eye, something woolly and sheep-like, like sheep I'd always thought.  

 The weather was set fair and determined to soak in as much of our spring sunshine and warmth, so often a rarity in these parts, during an evening walk accompanied by my faithful dog Flynn we happened upon some beautiful alpacas.  

They are gentle, peaceful and friendly creatures yet most intriguing is how at home they appear.  I can't help wondering how long they've been here and I can't believe that I've been mistaking them for sheep. 

 I pride myself on my observational skills and think of myself as a 'Miss Marple' figure, a local 'nosy parker' and all round 'busybody'.  Clearly, self praise is no recommendation.  My standards have slipped what other explanation is there?  I shall, of course, have to work to significantly raise my game.  However, a brief word in my defence when I have previously noted life in the field they were at rest and resembling fluffy sheep-like pillows.

Are these charming animals the result of our local agriculture diversifying into farm tourism?  Perhaps a hobby farmer or a local yarn producer?   One lives in eternal hope.

Further investigation was warranted as curiosity was the better of me in the end.  After conferring with the global phenomenon that is ‘Google’, my one stop shop for a keyword search, revealed that these alpacas have indeed been here for quite some time.   For the website, blog and endless cute photographs click, Book Willow Alpacas.

 Having fulfilled the sleuthing aspect of this post I feel that my dignity is at last restored, the balance is redressed and my head is held high as the local ‘nosy parker’. 

My love of alpaca yarn is born out of its luxury handling, excellent stitch definition, softness, warmth, lightness and reduced tickle factor on the skin.  In my opinion alpaca is an alternative fibre that is comparable to silk, often considered the epitome of luxury, if it isn't already obvious and to labour the point a little more I am a big fan.

As a doll maker my interest in alpaca lies in the scale of the individual fibres, being finer than human hair is an ideal medium for the smaller projects I’m compelled to undertake.  I am only truly happy when miniaturizing everything, I'm sorry I can’t explain it, I only wish I could. 

At the moment I frequently use silk and mohair to replicate the hairy aspects of a doll such as wigs and facial hair.  However, it would be thrilling to include a local source of alpaca, perhaps some raw fleece. 

Their innocence and trust is breathtaking, they are truly serene creatures.

Finally, it is farewell to the fish.  I am delighted to say that they have all found a special plaice in their new homes. 

Till next time.