How Pashmina Shawls Are Made: A Timeless Craft
Sourcing the Finest Wool
Pashmina wool comes from the undercoat of the Changthangi goat, native to the high-
altitude regions of Ladakh, India. These goats grow a fine, warm fleece to survive the
freezing Himalayan winters.
• The wool is collected in spring when the goats naturally shed their undercoat.
• Each goat produces only 80-200 grams of Pashmina wool per year, making it one of the
rarest and most luxurious fibers in the world.
At Pashm e Kash, we source only the finest Pashmina wool, ensuring superior softness and
warmth.
Cleaning and Sorting
Once collected, the raw Pashmina wool is carefully cleaned to remove dirt, grease, and
coarse hair.
• The fibers are sorted by hand to ensure only the softest, finest strands are used.
• This process is labor-intensive and requires experienced artisans who can differentiate
between varying fiber qualities.
Spinning: The Art of Hand Weaving
Unlike machine-spun wool, Pashmina yarn is traditionally spun by hand using a wooden
spindle called a Charkha.
• Hand-spinning ensures the delicate fibers remain soft and do not break.
• This process takes days to produce even a small quantity of yarn, highlighting the patience
and craftsmanship involved.
Weaving: A Delicate Craft
The spun yarn is then woven into fabric on traditional handlooms, primarily in Kashmir.
• Skilled artisans interlace the threads using age-old weaving techniques.
• Weaving a single Pashmina shawl can take weeks or even months, depending on the
complexity of the design.
Embroidery: The Art of Hand Decoration
Many Pashmina shawls are further enhanced with intricate hand embroidery, adding to their
beauty and uniqueness.
• Sozni Embroidery: A fine needlework technique creating delicate floral and paisley
patterns, often in vibrant colors.
• Tilla Embroidery: Done with gold or silver threads for a regal look, commonly seen in
wedding shawls.
• Kalamkari: Hand-painted or block-printed designs, adding an artistic touch.
• Each embroidery design is unique and can take several months to complete, making every
Pashmina shawl a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Dyeing and Finishing Touches
• The woven and embroidered shawls are often dyed using natural or azo-free dyes to
achieve rich, vibrant colors.
• Some shawls are left in their natural ivory shade for a classic, understated look.
• After dyeing, the shawls undergo finishing touches such as softening, stretching, and fringe
knotting to enhance their texture and durability.
We at Pashm e Kash use eco-friendly dyeing methods to ensure a sustainable and skin-
friendly finish.