Staff Writer
BLAINE – With the holiday season just around the corner and snow in the forecast, why not head to Blaine for a little shopping and a bit of fun visiting Spudland Alpacas at 130 Bubar Road, scheduled to open Nov. 10.
Owners Richard and Pauline Porter will be opening shop in a cozy cabin just feet away from the barn their alpacas call home. Visitors can browse the many gift items and get a glimpse at the somewhat shy, furry creatures that are best known for their warm coat that can be sheered and spun into yarn to make a vast array of items.
“Alpaca fiber is known for its warmth and durability,” said Richard Porter. “There’s nothing quite like it for its texture and ease of care.”
Unlike other products that loose their shape or shrink easily, alpaca fiber maintains its quality and doesn’t need to be drycleaned.
“You can use a product like Woolite and wash on the gentle cycle and the item – whether it’s a blanket or a sweater – comes out looking good as new,” said Pauline Porter.
Once washed, just lay the item flat to dry and it’s good to go.
Last year’s success with retail sales over the holiday season lead the Porters to the decision to open a facility of their own this year. But unlike last year, where they opened shop for a few months in Presque Isle, they decided to cut expenses by constructing a building on their own property.
“This makes it much easier. We can have regular hours or be open by appointment, since we just live a few feet away. We’ll have a note on our door, so if we’re not at the shop, all folks have to do is honk their horn or stop by the house,” said Pauline.
The building measures approximately 14 feet by 32 feet and will be heated by a corn stove – another product the Porters will continue to sell.
“Although we won’t have a variety on display, anyone interested can browse a catalog and we can order a stove for them,” said Richard.
The Porters plan to make it a family business, getting help from their daughters.
“Our daughters, Tracey and LauraLee, will be helping at the store,” said Pauline.
The store will feature everything from baby and adult-sized blankets, to stuffed toys and clothing items. It will also have a selection of houseware items, such as candles.
“In addition to ladies’ sweaters, we have men’s button-down sweaters this year. We also have vests that seem to be quite popular this year. We have a variety of socks, mittens, gloves, hats, scarves and blankets,” said Richard. “Our products are either by Peruvian Link or Red Maple – a product designed by a gentleman in Maine – all made in Peru.”
“We’ve added baby blankets this year. And we also have a line of primitive items suitable for any décor,” added Pauline. “And for the young and young-at-heart, there’s a variety of stuffed animals to choose from. We have lions, teddy bears and, of course, alpacas, to name a few.”
Regular business hours are: Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments can also be made to suit a shopper’s needs by calling 425-5121 or 227-7763.
“We’re flexible. If someone can’t make our regular hours, we can make an appointment to open the shop when it suits the customer,” said Pauline.
With many a cold winter day and night ahead of us, why not head to Spudland Alpacas and check out all the warm items they have to offer.
“For quality, comfort and durability, there’s nothing like an item made from alpaca fiber,” said Richard.
The grand opening will take place on Saturday, Nov. 10, with specials throughout the day. Refreshments will also be served.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
WITH SNOW in the forecast, now’s the time to upgrade that winter wardrobe. Spudland Alpacas is opening a shop in Blaine with many an item to keep you warm on a cold winter night. From sweaters to socks and scarves, there’s something for every member of the family.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
THE CHRISTMAS season is fast approaching, so why not get a head start on that gift for a special child by shopping at Spudland Alpacas in Blaine. Choose from a variety of cuddly stuffed animals to soft baby blankets, or for those outdoor activities, perhaps mittens, hats or gloves would be just the item to ward off those cold winter days. 
