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Announcing...

Fiber Sorting Services from DeSoto Bend!


If you've heard Robyn Kuhl or Carrie Hull from the Coarse Broads, Inc. talk about how to profit from your fiber, then you're familiar with the Certified Sorted(TM) system. You may also know about the North American Alpaca Fiber Producers. No matter if these are all new to you - here's our message.

Looking for a few good fleeces!

I've begun my fiber-sorting apprenticeship using the Certified Sorted (TM) system. In order to complete this venture, I would count it an honor to sort your herd's fleeces. Suri or huacaya - all fleeces are welcome!

What do you get from a Sorted Fiber Service?

Even if you're not part of a cooperative, fiber sorting can be of value. Here's a brief summary of what you'll get:
* Your herd's fiber, graded by fineness, length and color.
* A herd summary, showing where your herd's fiber strengths lie.
* Individual fiber evaluation forms for each alpaca.
* Ideas on what to do with your alpaca fiber, even for those fleeces that are no longer in the top tier.

What can I bring - even as a "Apprentice"?

+ More than 30 years experience working with natural fibers as a handspinner.
+ 10 years experience as an alpaca breeder.
+ All my fleece evaluations will be checked by my mentor (Carrie Hull).

What happens during a fiber sort?

We can do On-site or 'Bag' sort. Sorting is done in the same manner, but the timing is a little different in these 2 methods.
1. Bag Sort: sorting is done sometime after shearing is completed. The fleece is put into bags by sections (blanket, neck, etc.). This usually involves shipping the fleeces, or getting the fleeces to me in some way.
2. On-Site: The fleece is sorted immediately after the alpaca is shorn, right along with the shearing process. This is done at your site.
I do have some limitations on travel, so please contact me about the option you might be interested in well ahead of time, so we can plan what will work best.
At this point, my services as an apprentice are provided free of charge, but I would request $1.50 per fleece to cover supplies.

Please call or email to set up a time to get started on your fiber adventure!

DeSoto Bend Alpacas
 Helga and Clark Fensterman
8611 County Road 41  Ft. Calhoun, NE  68023
Ph:  402-426-8078   Fax:  402-426-1737     Email Us