Responsible Wool

RWS Wool

We strive to use wool fibres that are certified by the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). This standard addresses the welfare of sheep and the land they graze on.
It aims to provide the industry with a tool to recognize the best practices of farmers, ensures that wool comes from farms with a progressive approach to managing their land, and from sheep that have been treated responsibly.

The RWS requires all sites to be certified, beginning with the wool farmers and through to the seller in the final business-to-business transaction.
In doing so, the standard aims to create an industry benchmark to drive improvements in animal care and land management where needed.

Alpaca

Alpaca fleece is a natural protein fiber that comes from alpacas, fluffy animals in the South American branch of the camel family.
Their fibres are warmer, stronger, lighter and softer than other comparable qualities.

Alpaca wool is not certified, yet alpacas could be the greenest animals on the planet. They produce more fleece than sheep and have more effective eating and drinking habits than other grazing animals.
They require less water and food, compared to goats and sheep, which reduces their impact on the planet further.

Some facts:

  • Unlike goats and sheep, which have hooves which can cause land degradation, alpacas have padded feet that are gentle and do not harm the earth. When they graze the land, alpacas do not damage or destroy root systems, so plants continue growing after an alpaca has eaten or grazed on it.
  • 80% of all Alpaca yarns come from Peru. Alpaca is at the centre of Peru’s diverse textile heritage and many people earn a living with this beautiful fibre. From the breeder who raises the livestock, to the sorter who learned from its parents how to sort the fleece, to the spinners and knitters. By buying an alpaca product, you are directly contributing to the livelihood of these indigenous communities.
  • Next to that, the process of alpaca farming does not require harsh chemicals, so buying alpaca is really a win-win for you and the planet alike.