In a cold climate, alpaca yarn comes in quite handy if you know how to use it. It is a thicker type of yarn due to the nature of alpaca fur, and the resulting sweaters, scarves, socks and hats made from alpaca yarn are very warm and cozy. For those who have never experienced wearing or knitting something made of alpaca yarn or fur before, think of it as heavier, less itchy form of wool.
There are specific companies online and in stores that produce solely alpaca yarn, dyed or not dyed, for knitting and other projects. These stores and websites will have higher prices most likely, because the product is so specialized. It is also rare to find a knitter who has worked extensively with alpaca yarn.
One of the best gifts you can give someone who lives in a cold climate is the gift of alpaca socks, arguably one of the warmest forms of footwear known to man. They are perfect for tromping around in the snow, snowmobiling, sledding, working outside all day or simply walking around on cold tiled floors during the winter months.
If you want to find the best places to procure alpaca yarn or alpaca products, you will need to seek out local craft fairs or sole knitting proprietors. Some of these locations will offer alpaca products on site, while others will require you to give measurements before hand so they can hand knit your product. It is a complicated task for many consumers used to pulling a sweater off the store rack, but this will be a treasure that lasts far longer than something store bought.
You will have a great deal to pick your own design when ordering a handmade alpaca yarn product or if you wish to make the product yourself, you can buy a design sheet and the alpaca yarn.