Capt'n John continues in his search for the ten most expensive fabrics and returns with Fabric #9. This week's fabric comes from the Alpaca. Read on through and find out why Alpaca breaks into the list.

Here is why Alpaca is the #9 Most Expensive Fabric:

"Alpaca fabric is a luxurious and sustainable textile that has been around for centuries. It is made from the fleece of the alpaca, a domesticated South American animal related to the llama. The fabric is known for its softness, durability, and warmth, making it a popular choice for high-end clothing and home goods.

Alpaca fabric is primarily produced in Peru, where the animals are raised in the Andes Mountains. The alpaca fleece is sheared once a year, making it a sustainable resource. The fleece comes in a range of natural colors, from white to black, and can be blended with other fibers to create different textures and colors.

One reason alpaca fabric is expensive is due to the high quality of the fleece. Alpaca fleece is known for its fineness, which means it is softer and less itchy than wool. It is also hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, the fibers are stronger than wool, so clothing made from alpaca fabric is more durable and long-lasting.

Alpaca fabric is used in a variety of textiles, including sweaters, coats, scarves, and blankets. It is also used for home goods like pillows and rugs. The fabric has gained popularity in recent years due to its sustainability and luxurious feel. High-end fashion brands like Chanel and Stella McCartney have incorporated alpaca fabric into their collections.

The cost of alpaca fabric varies depending on the quality and blend of fibers. Pure alpaca fabric can cost upwards of $100 per yard, while blends with wool or silk can cost around $50 per yard."

Stay tuned and come back next week to find out what the #8 Most Expensive Fabric is.

Below is an Alpaca, the fleece of which is used to make the ninth most expensive fabric in the world.

Here is an example of an Airy Alpaca Fringe Sweater from Stella McCartney, priced at $717.99.

And here is an example of an Alpaca and Wool Cypress Pullover from Erica Tanov, priced at $340.80.