Chinstrap Penguin: Felted Alpaca Sculpture

Our Chinstrap Penguin Felted Alpaca Sculpture is part of our penguin collection. We love making these aquatic, flightless birds that mostly live in the southern hemisphere, especially in Antarctica. Our expert felting artists have years of experience in this craft. Each figure seeks to capture the true essence of its species with special attention to their counter-shaded dark and white plumage, and their flippers "wings". The nature of hand crafting makes each piece an 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. 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. We offer both finished sculptures and needle felting kits. Please call us at 877-Alpacas (877-257-2227) or click here for more info on DIY projects.

• Made using certified alpaca fiber
• Natural colors and marking are emulated 
• Artistically handcrafted in-house by our experts
• Kits include detailed steps and pictures for projects 
• Finished products are always Fair Trade from Peru