Fiber Washing

Washing Instructions for Suri Fiber

Weigh out amount of fiber you intend to have processed and add an extra 25% (some weight will be lost in the washing)

• First pick the fiber clean of all debris and short fibers. Shake out as much dust as possibly before washing.  While your fiber will be run through machinery, much of the debris stays in the fiber all the way through the spinning process.

• Fill a basin with fairly warm water

Add: 1 –2 teaspoons dish detergent per ounce (use Ivory Liquid, Dawn, or Joy)

Swirl the water with your hand to disperse the detergent.

Add the alpaca fiber and gently press the fiber down into the water to help it absorb the wash water.

• Walk away and let the fiber soak for at least 30 minutes.

• Draw the fiber to one side of the basin, gently squeezing out the wash water and dirt. Drain the basin and refill it with plain water the same temperature as the cooled wash water, (your hand can tell a significant temperature change).

• Replace the fiber in the rinse water and leave it alone to soak for 30 minutes.

• Repeat the rinse sequence one or more times until the rinse water comes out clear. Remember to use only plain water (no additives, such as conditioner, essential oils, or vinegar etc.)

• Gently squeeze the fibers as you remove the locks from the rinse water and lay the fiber in a towel. Roll up the towel, gently squeezing to absorb the excess water.

• Lay the fiber out on an elevated sweater drying rack, screen or on a dry towel to dry. When completely dry, place in a bag labeled, “Washed fiber”

• Important tips to avoid felting the fibers

  • Never run water on top of the fiber; put the fiber into the washing water.
    

  • Do not dramatically change the water temperature (hot to cold, cold to hot)

  • Do not agitate (over-squeeze or pick apart) the fibers while in the water

  • Use only plain water when rinsing