Shear Logic
Helpful tips for shearing alpacas

Thoughts of spring mean it's nearly time for shearing! After a number of years successfully shearing 100+ alpacas, we have found these tips to be helpful.

Line up experienced shearer with date to shear. Don't wait too long to schedule the shearer or you may be scrambling at the last minute!

Line up work crew. Let them know ahead of time what will be expected and where they can best be helpful. "Too many cooks," as the adage goes, may just get in the way, so keep the observers at a safe distance so your shearers can work efficiently.

Make a list of alpacas to be shorn. Keep in mind your spring show dates so that your show team doesn't get mixed into those to be sheared.

Print labels for bags of fiber with specific alpaca information. Proper labeling makes it easier for everyone when the shearers leave. You may want to indicate on the labels which animals' fiber you want for display.

Have adequate plastic bags for fiber. They need to be large enough to hold all the fiber - and you may want to have smaller zip-lock baggies ready to hold samples to send for testing.

Set up skirting table. The area underneath the table should be covered with a large drop cloth or old sheet to aid in cleanup later.

Have adequate workspace cleared for shearer. This is a job that can't be properly done in a small corner!

Make sure you have enough electrical outlets and extension cords. Have the cords securely taped to the floor so that shearers and your crew don't trip over them.

Set up holding pens for alpacas to be shorn.

Have various sizes of halters available with leads.

Brooms, dustpans, and trash cans are very helpful.

Have plenty of plastic and/or cotton sheets to gather your blanket fiber to skirt.

Towels or old socks are great for the spitters. (What's that? You don't have any spitters at your farm?)

Have plenty of food and drinks for your work crew and shearers. This will make it much more pleasant for everyone, and the quicker this task is completed, the happier your animals (and you!) will be.

Have your camera ready and take some great photos for your farm album!