These rugs are Alpaca - the Alpaca comes from South America and are a relative of the Llama - They are raised for food the same we we raise cattle and sheep. The Indians once used the fur for clothing, but now in modern times they wear the same clothing as you and I, so instead of throwing the fur away they make these beautiful artistic creations.

The reason the fur is so soft is that Alpaca live 12,000 feet up in the Andes where the climate can get extremely cold. The Rugs are all made by artists in Peru, and the large rugs can take as long as 200 hours to make - each rug is it's own work of art. The Alpaca is the only animal in the world that has 22 different shades of colour, and the fur is said to be the second strongest natural fibre in the world - only silk is said to be stronger.

* There are no inks or dyes used in any of the rugs - all the colours are natural. * Every rug is an individual work of art - no two rugs are identical. * In the unfortunate event you spilled tea, coffee, etc on a rug, the cleaning process is simple - clean with a carpet shampoo, there is no danger of the colours running as there are no inks or dyes in the rugs. Maintaining the rug is also very simple. What we recommend is that every month or so lightly dust the rug with talcum powder, brush or rub it in, then shake off the excess. This not only takes away the dust and grit, but also maintains the oils in the fur, keeping it in excellent condition. The rugs can also be hoovered, but only with a suction cleaner.

These Rugs Are Perfect For: * On The Wall **On The Bed**Draped Over  a Settee or Chair * * Luxuriating in Front of a Fireplace * ALPACA RUGS DON'T *Shed *Crease *Matt Down *Curl on the Edges

Tel/Fax: (+44) 01269-597833 Mobile: 07970-444490 Email: incarugs@cwcom.net

Inca Rugs, 90, Walter Road, Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, South Wales, SA18 2NF, United Kingdom.