Kathryn Shrimpton is the face behind Wear Alpaca, a family run business just outside Hexham.
Kathryn has been a member of the Allendale Creative Artists CIC for several years. Kathryn was just starting out her business, taking her knitwear to local craft fairs, when she heard about the project at Allendale. She had no permanent retail outlet at the time so Pebbles Gallery, as we were then, became her first outlet.
Kathryn says’ “At Wear Alpaca we offer those special touches. Bespoke up to the minute design, beautiful alpaca yarns, combined with highly skilful craft.”
“We have creative distinctive collections and timeless classics which will evolve embrace fashion trends.”
“Stylish wrist warmers … this season’s essential accessory, cosy scarfs, elegant neck warmers and fashionable beanies. Beat the winter chill with our soft and cosy slumber socks, perfect for lounging around the house or wearing in bed. An unbeatable treat for your feet.”
With such a range of distinctive and unique styles there is sure to be something to suit everyone, why not treat yourself or someone special in your life to experience a little pure alpaca luxury. You can see a wide selection of our knitwear and feel its unique softness against your skin at Allendale Forge Studios through the year where it is available to purchase including alpaca wool and our bespoke knitting patterns.”
About Alpaca
Alpaca fleece is the natural fiber harvested from an alpaca. It is light or heavy in weight, depending on how it is spun. It is a soft, durable, luxurious and silky natural fiber. While similar to sheep’s wool, it is warmer, not prickly, and has no lanolin, which makes it hypoallergenic. Alpaca is naturally water-repellent and difficult to ignite. Huacaya, an alpaca that grows soft spongy fiber, has natural crimp, thus making a naturally elastic yarn well-suited for knitting.
Kathryn also runs lovely Bed & Breakfast accommodation on the family run farm, Fairshaw Rigg, just outside Hexham.