FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Good things take time. Great knitwear is worth it. Everything you need to know about YAPA, from our natural fibers and handcrafted sweaters to sizing, shipping, exchanges, and knitwear care.

Materials & Craftsmanship

What materials does YAPA use?

Our collections feature exceptional natural fibers, including Baby Alpaca, alpaca, llama, and Pima cotton.

Many of our sweaters are crafted from 100% Baby Alpaca, while selected pieces feature other natural fibers or carefully chosen blends.

The exact composition is listed on each product page.

What are three interesting facts about Baby Alpaca?
  1. Exceptionally soft. Baby Alpaca is a fine grade of alpaca fiber, prized for its smooth, luxurious feel. Despite its name, it doesn’t necessarily come from baby animals.
  2. Naturally warm and lightweight. Alpaca fiber offers excellent insulation without unnecessary bulk. It’s also breathable, making it comfortable across different temperatures.
  3. Naturally durable. Alpaca is a strong, resilient fiber. With proper care, a quality Baby Alpaca sweater can remain a wardrobe favorite for years.
Is Baby Alpaca itchy?

Baby Alpaca is known for its exceptionally soft, lightweight feel and natural warmth.

Its fine fibers are comfortable for many people, although individual sensitivity to natural fibers may vary.

What is the difference between alpaca and llama fiber?

Both alpaca and llama are natural fibers from the Andes, valued for their warmth, durability, and unique textures.

Alpaca fiber is generally finer, softer, and lighter, making it ideal for luxurious sweaters and knitwear worn close to the skin.

Llama fiber tends to have a more textured character, offering warmth, resilience, and beautiful volume. Fine llama fibers, particularly Baby Llama, can also be exceptionally soft.

At YAPA, we select each fiber for its unique qualities, creating contemporary knitwear that combines comfort, texture, and modern design.

What is the difference between alpaca and cashmere?

Both alpaca and cashmere are premium natural fibers celebrated for their softness and warmth.

Baby Alpaca is naturally insulating, breathable, and lightweight, offering beautiful softness with a smooth, luxurious feel. It’s also valued for its strength and durability.

Cashmere, sourced from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats, is prized for its delicate, exceptionally soft texture and lightweight warmth.

At YAPA, we love Baby Alpaca for its balance of softness, warmth, durability, and versatility — ideal for modern sweaters designed to last beyond seasons.

How long does it take to make a YAPA sweater?

Good things take time.

A YAPA sweater takes approximately one and a half days to knit by hand, depending on the complexity of the design.

From intricate intarsia patterns to delicate crochet finishes and hand-embroidered details, every piece reflects the skill, time, and attention of the artisans who make it.

How, where, and by whom are YAPA sweaters made?

Designed in New York. Handcrafted in Bolivia.

Many YAPA sweaters are created by skilled Bolivian artisans, primarily women, who bring generations of knitting expertise to every piece.

Using techniques such as hand knitting, crochet, intarsia, and embroidery, our artisans transform contemporary designs into unique knitwear.

Each sweater represents a collaboration between modern design and traditional craftsmanship.

About YAPA

What is YAPA?

Founded in 2019, YAPA is a contemporary knitwear brand bringing together exceptional natural fibers, modern design, and skilled craftsmanship.

Designed in New York and handcrafted in Bolivia, our collections combine refined silhouettes, playful details, and a thoughtful approach to fashion.

What does YAPA mean?

Rooted in Aymara, YAPA means something extra — a small gift from the merchant to the buyer, a gesture of generosity that goes beyond the purchase.

For us, that something extra is woven into every piece: the time and skill of our artisans, the beauty of exceptional natural fibers, and the creativity behind each design.

It’s our way of bringing a little more meaning, care, and personality to the clothes you wear.

YAPA. A little something extra in every stitch.

Who is the designer behind YAPA?

YAPA was founded in 2019 by Bernarda Peláez, a Bolivian fashion designer and creative director based in New York.

Inspired by her Bolivian heritage and passion for contemporary fashion, Bernarda created YAPA to bring a fresh, cosmopolitan perspective to luxury knitwear.

Her designs combine modern silhouettes, playful details, exceptional natural fibers, and skilled craftsmanship to create pieces that feel both distinctive and timeless.

Why choose a YAPA sweater?

Because great knitwear is about more than softness.

At YAPA, we bring together exceptional natural fibers, contemporary design, and skilled craftsmanship to create pieces that feel as special as they look.

From our signature 100% Baby Alpaca sweaters to playful intarsia and thoughtful hand-finished details, every piece is designed to stand out and last beyond seasons.

Better fibers. Modern design. Made with intention.

Discover YAPA. Shop the Collection →

Sizing & Fit

How do I find my YAPA size?

Our Size Guide includes women’s body measurements from XS to XL in centimeters and inches.

For the best fit, compare your measurements with our chart and check each product description for specific sizing information.

Are YAPA sweaters true to size?

YAPA knitwear comes in a variety of silhouettes, from fitted essentials to relaxed and oversized styles.

We recommend checking each product’s fit description to find your preferred look.

Should I size up in YAPA knitwear?

It depends on the style and your preferred fit.

For a more relaxed look, sizing up may be an option for certain designs. However, many of our sweaters already feature a relaxed silhouette.

Women · Body measurements

Size US EU Bust Waist Hips
XS 2 34 77–81 cm
30.3–31.9 in
61–65 cm
24.0–25.6 in
87–91 cm
34.3–35.8 in
S 4 36 82–86 cm
32.3–33.9 in
66–70 cm
26.0–27.6 in
92–96 cm
36.2–37.8 in
M 6 38 87–91 cm
34.3–35.8 in
71–75 cm
28.0–29.5 in
97–101 cm
38.2–39.8 in
L 8 40 92–96 cm
36.2–37.8 in
76–80 cm
29.9–31.5 in
102–106 cm
40.2–41.7 in
XL 10 42 97–101 cm
38.2–39.8 in
81–85 cm
31.9–33.5 in
107–111 cm
42.1–43.7 in

How to measure. Bust: around the fullest part. Waist: around the natural waist. Hips: around the fullest part. Measurements are body measurements. For a more relaxed knitwear fit, consider sizing up.

View full size chart →

Knitwear Care

How do I wash my Baby Alpaca sweater?

Natural fibers don’t need frequent washing. Airing or gently steaming your knitwear is often enough to keep it fresh.

When washing is needed, always follow the garment’s care label. For hand-washable pieces, use cold water and a gentle wool detergent. Avoid rubbing or twisting, then reshape and dry flat.

For pieces combining bold and light colors, we recommend professional dry cleaning.

Why does alpaca knitwear pill?

Pilling is a natural characteristic of fine knitwear, especially in areas exposed to friction.

Small pills can be gently removed using a suitable knitwear comb. With proper care, your sweater can maintain its beautiful appearance for years.

How should I store my knitwear?

Keep your knitwear clean, dry, and neatly folded. Avoid hanging sweaters for long periods, as this can stretch their shape.

For seasonal storage, use a breathable bag or box in a cool, dry place.

Can my YAPA sweater be repaired?

Small snags, loose stitches, and minor damage can often be repaired, helping extend the life of your favorite knitwear.

YAPA Repair Services are coming soon.

Read the full care guide →

Orders & Shipping

Where does YAPA ship?

We ship across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and to eligible international destinations. Shipping options and rates are calculated at checkout.

Does YAPA offer free shipping?

Yes! Enjoy free standard shipping on US orders over $150. For orders of $150 or less and international purchases, shipping costs are calculated at checkout.

How long will my order take to arrive?

Many YAPA pieces are handcrafted in small batches, so processing times may vary depending on product availability.

Estimated shipping times are provided at checkout or in your order confirmation. Once your order ships, we’ll share tracking information when available.

Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes?

International orders, including shipments to Canada and Mexico, may be subject to import duties, taxes, or customs fees depending on your country’s regulations.

These charges are the customer’s responsibility unless otherwise stated at checkout.

How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you’ll receive a shipping confirmation with tracking information when available.

For assistance, contact us via WhatsApp +591 69762030 or at hello@yapaofficial.com.

Can I cancel or change my order?

Once an order has been placed and confirmed, we do not accept cancellations or changes, except where required by applicable law.

For pre-orders, estimated shipping dates are provided at the time of purchase. If we cannot ship your order within the promised timeframe, we’ll contact you with the available options, including any cancellation or refund rights required by law.

Returns & Exchanges

What is YAPA’s return and exchange policy?

We offer exchanges or store credit within 30 days of delivery for eligible orders shipped to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Items must be unworn, unused, and in their original condition, with tags attached and original packaging, and must have been purchased at regular price.

We do not offer refunds for change-of-mind returns.

Can I exchange an international order?

Orders shipped to Canada and Mexico are eligible for exchanges or store credit within 30 days of delivery.

Orders shipped to other international destinations are final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged, except where required by applicable law.

Who pays for return shipping?

Customers are responsible for all return shipping costs. YAPA does not provide prepaid return labels for standard exchanges. We recommend using a trackable shipping service, as YAPA is not responsible for items lost or damaged during return transit.

For approved exchanges, YAPA covers shipping the replacement item to the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Any applicable customs charges remain the customer’s responsibility.

How do I request an exchange or store credit?

Simply contact us via WhatsApp +591 69762030 or at hello@yapaofficial.com within 30 days of receiving your order.

Once approved, send your item to:

YAPA
161 Mott St #7
New York, NY 10013
United States

Please wait for authorization before shipping your item. Once we receive and inspect your return, we’ll process your exchange or issue store credit.

Which items are final sale?

Personalized or custom-made items, sale or discounted merchandise, and gift cards are not eligible for change-of-mind exchanges or store credit.

Orders shipped outside the United States, Canada, and Mexico are also final sale, except where required by applicable law.

What if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?

Please contact us immediately via WhatsApp +591 69762030 or at hello@yapaofficial.com with your order number and photographs of the issue.

Our team will review your request and help find an appropriate solution.

Shipping policy →   Returns policy →

Still have questions?

We’re always happy to help with sizing, shipping, product information, and your YAPA orders.

WhatsApp: +591 69762030
Email: hello@yapaofficial.com

Thank you for choosing YAPA and supporting thoughtfully made knitwear.