Alpaca & Wool Throws

Alpaca fibers are smoother and finer than most sheep's wool — they sit closer in hand-feel to cashmere than to traditional wool, which is why alpaca throws don't usually itch the way coarse wool can. Baby alpaca is the softest grade. Quince's wool pieces use merino and lambswool, both of which are also fine enough to wear directly against skin for most people.

Alpaca and wool both insulate better by weight than cashmere — meaning the same warmth in a lighter piece, or significantly more warmth in a similar weight. Wool also performs better when damp than most fibers. For cold homes, an alpaca or wool throw delivers more practical warmth than cashmere; cashmere wins on hand-feel and drape.

Alpaca is naturally hypoallergenic — its fiber contains no lanolin, which is the substance most people are reacting to when they say they are allergic to wool. Wool itself is rarely a true allergy; what feels like an allergy is usually fiber-coarseness sensitivity, which fine wools like merino and lambswool largely avoid.

Hand wash in cold water with a wool-safe detergent, or use a delicates cycle in a mesh bag. Skip fabric softener and bleach. Lay flat to dry, reshape while damp, and keep away from direct heat — never tumble dry. Professional dry cleaning is a safe alternative for special-care pieces.

Year-round depends on the fiber. Lightweight cotton and gauze throws breathe well enough for summer; cashmere, alpaca, and wool are warm three seasons of the year and excellent for cool homes in summer; faux fur is best in fall and winter. Most homes keep a heavier throw and a lighter one and rotate them by season.

Yes — a quality throw is one of the more reliable gifts because it's hard to mis-size and easy to use. The piece arrives folded and ready, suits any home, and rewards daily use. Cashmere, alpaca, and faux fur read as gifts; organic cotton and waffle weaves read as practical-with-a-touch-of-luxury.