From Thread to Treasure: The Journey of Pashmina Wool

We believe that one’s clothing reflects a part of their soul and  WeaverStory is here to cater to that part of you. WeaverStory, a treasure trove of handcrafted Indian traditionals  is working to revive the complex weaving techniques like the baluchari, shikargahs, kadhwa and jamdani weave and fabrics woven with design repertoire. From floral motifs to animal images, making use of the  drawlooms from the courts of Mughal India and Iran, almost extinct since the 19th century. We bring to you the finest collection of  pashmina shawls, stoles and mufflers imprinted with the stunning with sozni, kalamkari and kaani work.

Let’s take you through the pashmina wool’s journey in our Indian culture and heritage.

Pashmina wool, a.k.a. Cashmere wool is one of the most luxurious and sought-after materials in the world. The word Pashmina originates from the Persian word ‘Pashm’, which means wool. It comes from the soft, downy undercoat of the Cashmere goat, which is found mainly in the high altitudes of the Himalayan region, including India, Nepal, and Tibet. The journey of pashmina wool from thread to treasure is a long and intricate process that is 6 step procedure: 

• The first step in the process is the collection of the pashmina wool. This is typically done during the spring season when the goats naturally shed their winter coat. The wool is then collected by hand, using a process called combing, which involves gently removing the downy undercoat from the goat's outer coat. 
• Once the wool has been collected, it is carefully sorted to remove any impurities or debris that may have gotten caught in the fleece. This is done by hand, and the wool is separated into different grades based on its quality and fineness. The highest quality wool comes from the underbelly and neck of the goat, while the lower grades come from other areas of the animal's body.
• After the wool has been sorted, it is spun into yarn using traditional methods. This is typically done by hand, using a spinning wheel which requires great skill. Once the yarn has been spun, it is typically dyed using natural dyes made from plants, roots, and flowers. These dyes are often sourced locally and give the yarn a beautiful, rich colour.
• The next step in the process is weaving the yarn into fabric. This is typically done using a traditional handloom, which is operated by skilled artisans who have been trained in the craft for generations. 
• Once the fabric has been woven, it is often embroidered or embellished using intricate designs and patterns. This is done by skilled craftsmen who have been trained in the art of embroidery and who use traditional techniques and tools to create stunning works of art.
• The final step in the process is the finishing of the fabric. This typically involves washing and pressing the fabric to give it a soft, luxurious feel and to ensure that it retains its shape and texture. Hence, it’s now turned from thread to treasure.

Pashmina is a reflection of the Indian attire blended with grace and elegance. It’s almost like an emotion to few and a sign of luxury to many Indians. Check out these five (5) gorgeous top picks that will keep you warm but will stand out, this winter:

1. Royalty:

This is a black handwoven pure pashmina shawl with multi-coloured kalamkari. One can feel its divine warmth that showcases elegance with this graceful piece. 

2. The green theory:

We bring to you a parrot green handwoven pure pashmina shawl with sozni kari booti. You can wear this beautiful green shawl around yourself and feel closer to nature.

3. The wedding edit:

Weddings are a beautiful affair, full of sheer love and warmth of your dear ones. Winters are a peak season for weddings, and you would definitely want to adorn yourself with something that brings out the glam in you. Our handwoven maroon pure pashmina shawl with awakari tilla will do wonders with your already stunning wedding outfit. 

4. All in one:

This one is for the bold and bright you! This is for all those colours that bring out the best in you. This is hues of colours wrapped with elegance. Hence, we bring to you the Light Pink Handwoven Pure Pashmina Shawl With Sozni Kari And Kalamkari adorn and shine bright.

 5. The soothing beige:

The subtle shades of nude go with everything and are a mark of elegant beauty. This Beige Handwoven Pure Pashmina Shawl With Ikat Design will go along with every outfit - Indian or western, making for your go-to company in winters. Sometimes we want to wear something that goes with everything we wear and yet gives you the subtle touch. Hence, this handwoven beige pure pashmina shawl with tilla work would be the perfect fit for you. 

All of us deserve to look remarkable in our outfits and these classy and elegant pashmina shawls will do full justice for you.

Enjoy the finest Indian handlooms and handcrafted products from skilled artisans across India at  WeaverStory

Author - Mannat Kalra