As you may know, if you've read our updates or blog pages, we do all of our own shearing here at Twisted Lock, and have done so for several years now. With over a hundred alpacas (and a couple of llamas) in residence here, we've had lots of practice. We've done some limited outside shearing over the last two years, and due to numerous requests, have decided to make our services available on a larger scale.

We are very proud of the consistent quality of our shearing, and the gentle and respectful manner with which we treat the animals. Should you choose to avail yourself of our shearing services, you'll be thrilled with the way your animals will look when we're finished.

Rather than shearing on the ground, as most shearers do, we prefer to use the MSA shearing table, which is easier on the back and knees - ours and yours. It is a very civilized method of shearing, and the animals generally tolerate it very well.

We offer other services when shearing, such as toenail trimming, shots, and teeth trimming - both incisors and/or fighting teeth. For teeth trimming, we utilize the Tooth-a-Matic, as well as a Dremel tool and obstetrics wire. The needs of the animal and the desires of the owner dictate the method(s) used. Typically, we'll use the obstetrics wire for fighting teeth, the Tooth-a-Matic for incisors on production animals (where a functional bite is more important than a pretty one), and the Dremel tool for show animals and/or for final touch-up after using the other tools.

Our pricing will depend on the number being sheared, in conjunction with the distance traveled. Emphasis is placed on safety, quality, and end result, rather than speed.

For availability and a quote, contact us at 626-376-7515 or shearing@twistedlock.com.

Speed Cut $25

This is for when you just want the fleece off the animal, and you're not too particular about the look. There may be shearing lines visible. Legs will not be tapered. Top knots will receive minimal or no trimming. Tails will be rough trimmed.

Nudie Cut $35

This cut will leave the animal looking very nice. The legs will be sheared clean - no tapering or stove piping. Top knots will be trimmed, where appropriate. Tails will be finish trimmed, if desired (a well-trimmed tail makes breeding and/or birthing much easier for females, and will help keep males' testicles cooler, for increased sperm production).

Tapered Leg Cut $45

This cut is identical to the Nudie Cut, except the legs may be tapered or stove piped. This  makes for a very pleasing and balanced appearance.  Huacayas' legs will be trimmed with shears. Suris' legs will generally be trimmed with scissors, or a combination of scissors and shears.

Show Cut $55

This cut is the ultimate! Your alpaca will never look better than this. Top knots and tails are finish trimmed and shaped with shears and scissors. Legs are tapered or stove piped. Shearing lines will be thoroughly cleaned up. We'll even trim the hair on your alpaca's toes and underarms, using dog clippers for safety in delicate areas.

Show Blanket $5

Show blankets will be removed in 1 piece, where possible, and extra care will be taken to minimize second cuts. Client will be expected to provide sheet, table cloth, or other wrapping for show blanket.

Llama Shearing-Nudie Cut $50

Llamas are typically shorn standing. We prefer to shear llamas in a chute. If you don't have one available, we can bring ours for an additional charge. Please ask.

For groups of 10 or more animals, deduct $5 each from the prices above (except for Show Blanket).

Ron does the shearing, and provides one assistant with experience in holding and positioning the animal, as well as loading the animal on the table, etc. There is no additional charge for the assistant.

Client will be expected to lead animals to shearing station, and to assist in the shearing process. It is helpful to have an additional helper, if possible. Client/helper will be responsible for gathering/sorting/bagging fleece as it is sheared off the animal. You may also wish to trim toenails, administer shots, or perform other herd maintenance tasks while we shear.

Teeth Trimming $10

Toenail Trimming $5

Shots $2 each

We travel with a shearing table, equipment table, several sets of shears, clippers, cutters, combs, sharpening equipment, teeth trimming equipment, extension cords, and lots of miscellaneous little goodies and extras that make the shearing experience easier and more complete. As a result, it takes a little while to get everything set up. For this we charge a $50 setup fee.

We also charge $1 per mile for round-trip travel. This covers the cost of fuel and maintenance, plus a little extra for our time.