Collection: Maree Churchill

Hello! I’m Maree Churchill, and I’m based in Swannanoa, North Canterbury.

I started The Alpaca Attic Studio in 2006, focusing on breeding Suri Alpaca, Huacaya Alpaca, and a small flock of coloured Merino, now known as Suri Fino Alpacas. My journey into natural fibre art began with a passion for these unique fibres, leading me to create a diverse range of Alpaca Fibre Products. My Suri Alpaca has been recognised and awarded for its exceptional quality at various NZ Alpaca shows.

I’m self-taught in Wet Felting and Nuno Felting, and I’ve combined my experience as a breeder with extensive knowledge of working with natural fibres. My work highlights the luxurious qualities of Suri Alpaca, such as its lustre, fineness, drapability, and silky feel. I find inspiration in the natural colour palette of Canterbury’s landscapes and the changing seasons, enhancing my creations with everything from bright silks to muted pastels.

I practice regenerative semi-organic methods and aim to use 100% of my fleeces to minimise waste. My felting work includes Suri and Huacaya Alpaca fleece, Merino wool, and natural silk fabrics. I hand dye my fibres with eco-friendly techniques and am exploring botanical dyeing methods. I also enjoy repurposing second-hand silk scarves for nuno felting.

I’m committed to expanding my fibre knowledge and inspiring others through my craft. I’ve enjoyed hosting felting classes from my home studio for over 10 years and participating in Alpaca shows. My ongoing goals include producing finer, denser fleeces and exploring new felting techniques.

Website: www.surifino.com
Facebook: Alpaca Attic Studio