Hippo: Wildlife Felted Alpaca Sculpture

Hippos inhabit rivers, lakes, and mangrove swamps. Territorial bulls each preside over a stretch of water and a group of five to thirty cows and calves. Hippo Wildlife Felted Alpaca Sculpture captures the stark beauty and elegant nature of this wildlife creature. They are carefully created by our expert needle felters in Arequipa, Peru. The hippo is part of our wildlife collection. We seek to capture the true essence of each animal with special attention to shape, markings, and color. Due to the hand crafting process, each piece is original with slight variations.

What Is Alpaca Fiber?

Alpaca was once considered a gift from the gods and the most important relic of Incan history. Alpacas are in the camelid family, sharing the most genetic material with the vicuña. They are one of the four South American camelids.

The two breeds of alpacas are: the Huacaya and the Suri. The types of fiber harvested from each of these breeds are equally prized for different reasons. Fiber derived from alpacas varies in weight depending on how it is spun, making it ideal for a number of different kinds of products. Compared to sheep’s wool, alpaca fiber is considerably softer, and more durable.

About Needle Felting?

Needle felting is a dry felting method typically using wool with its barbs that felt quickly and easily. However, we use alpaca for a softer and more artistic effect. Our crafters have mastered this art form and now use this media for sculptures, flat art, and clothing embellishments.

Fiber artists can needle felt for a few moments or for days at a time. This relaxing craft is now available to everyone. Please call us at 877-Alpacas (877-257-2227) for more information.

• Made using certified alpaca fiber
• Natural colors and marking are emulated
• Artistically handcrafted in-house by our experts
• Finished products are always Fair Trade from Peru