Designing with Purpose: A One-of-a-Kind Alpaca Cardigan

Being a fashion designer always comes with challenges, but the process becomes so much easier when there is a clear purpose behind the garment. A few weeks ago, while standing at Thames Market Every Saturday, I felt a cool breeze brush against my bare arms. In that moment, I knew exactly what was needed — a short cardigan that would keep me warm while still making a strong fashion statement.

I sketched a quick design and talked it through with Dana, discussing how we could bring the idea to life. When time finally allowed, I began carding the alpaca fleece and laying out the fibres. I started with the back section, adding a small amount of silk to introduce texture and movement. After two hours of careful work, the back was ready to be washed and dried.

I had a plan for the front, but as often happens during the creative process, inspiration shifted. While laying out the fibres, I changed direction completely — why not cross it over? Allowing creative thoughts to flow freely often leads to the most exciting designs.

I can’t wait to wear this one-of-a-kind alpaca cardigan, created with purpose, intuition, and a little faith in the design journey.

Hashtags:

#AlpacaFashion #SlowFashionDesigner #HandmadeStyle #ThamesMarket #WearableArt #summerlayers #TeArohaNZ 

🎉🐑 You’re Invited – Alpacca Artistry Studio Open Days! 🎉

Come and see the magic of alpaca fibre ✨ Watch how we card, spin, and felt alpaca fleece into beautiful one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories.

📅 When: Monday 29th , Tuesday 30th September & Wednesday 1st October, 9am – 3pm

📍 Where: Our peaceful studio, just 5km north of Te Aroha (find us on Google Maps)

💡 Bonus: Work with us to create your very own custom colour mix and design – something truly unique to you!

✨ Off-street parking available

✨ Relaxed country setting

✨ Handmade with love, right here in NZ

👉 Mark your calendar and bring a friend – we can’t wait to welcome you!

#AlpacaArtistry #StudioOpen #AlpacaFashion #HandcraftedWithLove #NZMade #AlpacaClothing #OneOfAKindDesigns #AlpacaAccessories Thames Market - Every Saturday #tearoha #designerclothing

Brand New Alpaca Felted Scarves – Unique, Handmade, and Perfect for NZ Weather

We’re excited to introduce our brand new alpaca felted scarves, with each piece designed as a one-of-a-kind creation. Our very first sample is complete, and it’s everything we hoped for – soft, warm, and beautifully shaped to provide comfort around your neck and chest.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be designing and creating more alpaca scarves, each with its own unique colours and textures. Photos of new designs will be uploaded as they are finished, so keep an eye out for updates.

Why Choose Alpaca Fibre?

Alpaca fibre is ideal for the New Zealand climate. It’s lightweight yet provides incredible warmth, making it perfect for cool mornings, crisp evenings, and those unpredictable NZ days. The natural softness of alpaca ensures comfort, while its rich, warm colours make every scarf not only practical but also a stylish addition to your wardrobe.

Pricing and Availability

Our alpaca felted scarves will be priced from just $65, offering you a handcrafted piece of wearable art at an affordable price. Each scarf is made with care, ensuring it’s both functional and fashionable.

Where to Find Us

You can shop our scarves in person:

Thames Market – Every Saturday from 8am

Alpaca Artistry Studio – Open Saturday afternoons from 2pm and Sundays from 10am

#AlpacaScarves #HandmadeInNZ #AlpacaFibre #FeltedScarves #AlpacaArtistry #ThamesMarket #NZMadeFashion #SustainableStyle #AlpacaWarmth #OneOfAKindScarves #tearoha 

Sneak Peek at Our Alpaca Studio Near Te Aroha

We are excited to share a little sneak peek of our brand-new alpaca studio, located just 5km north of Te Aroha, New Zealand. Nestled on a quiet lifestyle block surrounded by farmland, our studio is the perfect spot to relax, browse, and try on our handcrafted alpaca garments.

Visit Our Alpaca Studio

Our studio is open:

Saturday from 2pm

Sunday from 10am

With off-street parking available, visiting us is stress-free and welcoming. Whether you’re looking for a new alpaca beanie, scarf, headband, or gloves, our space is designed to give you time to enjoy the feel of this unique fibre.

Why Choose Alpaca Fibre in New Zealand?

Alpaca fibre is ideal for our New Zealand climate. Lightweight yet warm, it’s perfect for cooler evenings and early mornings—even throughout summer. Unlike synthetic fibres, alpaca breathes naturally, keeping you comfortable in every season.

Handcrafted for Comfort & Style

Every garment we offer is hand-processed and hand-spun, creating a special touch you won’t find in mass-produced items. Each piece is soft, durable, and timeless—designed to be treasured for years.

Come and experience the difference alpaca fibre makes. We can’t wait to welcome you to our Te Aroha studio this weekend.

#AlpacaNZ #AlpacaFibre #HandcraftedNZ #TeAroha #AlpacaBeanies #AlpacaScarves #AlpacaStudio #NZMade #AlpacaFashion #SustainableStyle #AlpacaWool #ShopLocalNZ #AlpacaGarments #NZStyle #SlowFashionNZ #AlpacaClothing

Stay Warm This Spring with Handcrafted Alpaca Accessories

Spring may be just around the corner, but the cooler weather is still making its presence felt across New Zealand. Those crisp mornings and chilly evenings call for extra warmth – and that’s where our handcrafted alpaca accessories come in.

Our collection of alpaca beanies, scarves, headbands, and gloves are designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and stylish. Each piece is carefully crafted from soft, lightweight alpaca fibre – perfect for New Zealand’s changing seasons.

Whether you’re heading out for a morning walk, visiting the local markets, or simply enjoying time in the garden, alpaca clothing provides natural insulation without the bulk. It’s breathable, durable, and ideal for year-round wear.

Shop local, stay cosy, and step into spring with confidence knowing you’re wrapped in the luxury of alpaca.

📩 For enquiries or to place an order, email: alpaccapaula@gmail.com or find us at the Thames Market every Saturday 

🌿 #AlpacaArtistry #AlpacaBeanies #AlpacaScarves #AlpacaHeadbands #AlpacaGloves #HandcraftedNZ #NewZealandMade #StayWarmNZ #SpringStyleNZ #AlpacaClothing #ShopLocalNZ #SustainableFashion

Discover Our New Alpacca Artistry Studio – Now Open!

We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new Alpaca Artistry studio, just 5 minutes north of Te Aroha. Gather your friends and enjoy a relaxing visit in a peaceful setting, with easy off-street parking.

Take your time to try on luxury alpaca beanies, scarves, one-of-a-kind clothing, and cosy headbands – all handcrafted for comfort, warmth, and style. Alpaca fibre is soft, lightweight, and perfect for New Zealand’s cooler climates.

Opening Hours

📅 Saturday from 2pm

📅 Sunday after 10am

📩 Book your visit: alpaccapaula@gmail.com

Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or a treat for yourself, our studio is the perfect place to experience the beauty of alpaca products in comfort. Bring your friends and make a day of it!

New Men's Alpaca Beanie Design – Light, Slouchy & Super Warm

This week has been all about crafting something new – and we’re excited to share it with you. Introducing our latest men's alpaca beanie: a light, slouchy design that’s easy to wear, effortlessly stylish, and wonderfully warm.

Made from premium natural alpaca fibre, this beanie is perfect for New Zealand’s winter conditions. Alpaca is a hollow fibre, known for being lightweight, insulating, and breathable – making it ideal for both everyday wear and outdoor adventures.

We now have two men's beanie styles to choose from:

Our classic fitted cap beanie – a snug, structured design

The new slouchy beanie – soft, relaxed and perfect for that laid-back look

Whether you're heading to the market, walking the dog, or looking for a thoughtful gift, these hand-crafted alpaca beanies offer warmth, comfort and timeless style.

🌿 Handmade with care in New Zealand

🧶 Custom colours available

📍 See them in person at Thames Market, every Saturday from 8am

Explore our full range of alpaca winter warmers at

👉 www.alpaccaartistry.com

Follow us on Instagram: @alpaccaartistry_2

Stay Warm in Style: Handcrafted Alpaca Beanies and Matching Pull-On Scarves

Looking for the perfect winter accessory that’s both practical and stylish? Why not purchase a beanie and matching pull-on scarf handcrafted from soft alpaca yarn? These cosy sets are not only warm and lightweight—they’re also beautifully made to suit your individual style.

Each alpaca beanie and scarf combo is designed for comfort and durability, ideal for chilly mornings, windy walks, or layering up in town. Alpaca is a natural hollow fibre, making it warmer and lighter than wool. It’s breathable, soft against the skin, and simply snuggly to wear.

Whether you're after a fitted beanie or a slightly slouchy style (perfect for ponytails!), we can create a look that's just right for you. Choose from a range of colours or request a custom set—every piece is handmade with care.

✨ Why choose alpaca?

Naturally warm and lightweight

Soft and non-irritating

Durable and long-lasting

Sustainably and ethically sourced

🧶 Custom combinations available

Want a matching set in your favourite colour? I can make any beanie and scarf combination to suit your look or wardrobe.

🌿 Shop handmade, support local, and stay cosy this winter.

📍Come and try on your perfect set at Thames Market every Saturday from 8am

🌐 Visit www.alpaccaartistry.com

📸 Follow on Instagram: @alpaccaartistry_2

Cosy Up for Winter with Our New Alpaca Beanies

Just in time for a crisp winter's day – our latest alpaca beanies have arrived!

🧶 Two timeless crochet styles:

Fitted cap – snug and stylish at $30

Almost slouchy – relaxed, perfect for ponytails at $35

Made from luxurious alpaca – a natural hollow fibre that’s warm, light, and beautiful to wear.

We’re happy to make a style and colour to suit you.

🛍️ See the full range every Saturday at Thames Market (8am–1pm)

📍 Or book an appointment to visit our Te Aroha studio

✨ www.alpaccaartistry.com

📸 Instagram: @alpacca_artistry2 

#AlpacaBeanies #WinterWarmth #HandcraftedStyle #AlpacaLove #NZMade #ThamesMarket #TeArohaMakers #StayCozy #SupportLocal #NaturalFibreFashion

Snuggly Soft for the Tiniest Heads 🐑🧶

Our new range of handcrafted alpaca baby beanies has arrived — soft, warm, and gentle on delicate skin.

Made from 100% alpaca or a luxurious blend of alpaca, merino, and silk, these beanies come in four soft colours: cream, pink, lemon, and blue. We’ve designed them in three sizes to fit growing babies from 0–9 months.

Choose from two cosy styles, each hand-crocheted with love and care — perfect for keeping little ones snug on chilly days or as a thoughtful gift.

💛 Sizes:

• 0–3 months

• 3–6 months

• 6–9 months

🌸 Colours:

• Cream

• Pink

• Lemon

• Blue

Come see them in person at Thames Market every Saturday or message us for photos and prices.

Browse more handmade alpaca pieces at www.alpaccaartistry.com

Follow us on Instagram: @alpacca_artistry2

#AlpacaBaby #HandmadeWithLove #AlpacaBeanies #BabyGiftIdeas #NZMakers #AlpaccaArtistry #NaturalFibres #ThamesMarket

From Fleece to Fashion: A Sunday of Alpaca Magic

Sunday was buying day — and what a find! Two beautifully soft black alpaca fleeces came home with us, full of promise and texture. After a gentle but thorough clean, we got straight to work processing the fibre.

There’s something deeply satisfying about carding and spinning freshly prepared fleece — especially when the fibres are this rich and luxurious. Once spun, the yarn almost begged to be turned into something special.

And it didn’t take long. The first creation? A brand-new headband — soft, warm, and with a subtle sheen that only black alpaca can give. Every stitch reflects the care and joy poured into each step, from paddock to product.

Follow the journey and see the finished piece at www.alpaccaartistry.com or on Instagram @alpaccaartistry_2.
You can also find us on Facebook!

#AlpacaArtistry #FromFleeceToFashion #HandmadeWithLove #AlpacaFibre #NaturalYarn #SlowFashion #SustainableStyle #NZMade #CrochetHeadband #SpinnersOfInstagram #HandspunYarn #AlpacaWool #FarmToFashion #CraftedWithCare #WinterAccessories #SupportLocalNZ

Time to Spin: A Rich Alpaca Blend in Black, Silver, Rust & White

The next spin begins — and this one’s extra special.

Carefully processed by hand, our latest batch of alpaca fleece blends striking tones of black, silver, rust, and white into a deep, rich mix. Each twist of the spindle brings out subtle shades and natural softness unique to these fibres. The result? A one-of-a-kind yarn that’s ready to be transformed into cosy, elegant winter wear.

Every colour tells a story — from the bold sheen of silver to the earthy warmth of rust. Perfect for creating timeless beanies, snug scarves, or textured ear warmers that stand out in the chill.

Follow the journey on: 🌐 www.alpaccaartistry.com
📷 Instagram: @alpacca_artistry2
📘 Facebook: Alpacca Artistry

Come see what’s spinning next!

Keep Warm in Style – Headbands, Ear Warmers & Hair Tidies

Looking for a stylish way to keep your hair in place and your ears toasty this winter? Our handcrafted alpaca headbands, ear warmers, and hair tidies are just the thing!

With a wide range of styles, sizes, and colours—from creamy blends and soft light browns to rich mid browns and deep black-brown mixes—there’s something to suit everyone. Some even double as a snug little neck warmer!

Prices range from just $15 to $30, making them a great value for thoughtful, practical gifts or a cosy treat for yourself.

Come visit us at Thames Market every Saturday to try them on, or email us for photos and available styles—we’re happy to help you choose!

.

Alpaca Colour Mixes – Naturally Stunning

From soft creams and warm fawns to deep browns and silvery greys — alpaca fleece comes in a beautiful range of natural colours.

At Alpacca Artistry, we use these undyed shades (and the occasional hint of pure silk) to create cosy beanies, scarves, and more. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, spun and crocheted with care.

See what’s new at www.alpaccaartistry.com and follow us on Instagram @alpacca_artistry2 🧶✨

I'm often asked about the benefits of alpaca wool compared to traditional sheeps wool. Alpaca is a hollow fibre. It's super light and soft. Imagine wearing a down jacket or changing to double glazing windows. These unique properties are ideal for creating super warm garments. When I wear my hooded scarf, it's soft, snuggly, light and warm. Another benefit is the how quickly Alpaca dries. Just soak your garment in cold water, rinse, squeeze out as much water as you can, then place flat on a towel to dry. Perfect for winter! Below is a a photo of a hooded scarf about halfway completed. Simply beautiful!

Alpacca Artistry began with a small range of beanies, headbands, placemats and storage bags. It didn't take long for curiosity and creativity to spark new alpaca designs along with requests from customers. Each Saturday you can view and try on these high quality alpaca beanies, gloves, head bands, scarves and one of a kind vests, shawls and shrugs. We can design and create from our large range of colour mixes. Alpaca fibres are perfect for chilly winter days. Pure luxury, so soft and snuggly.