The Pashmina Process

Did you know that production of our Kashmiri Pashmina scarves takes place in small, family-owned workshops? 

 

Each of our pieces are produced in the Jammu region in these quaint workshops, using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. 

Keep reading to learn more about these traditional practices and the process of creating one of our beautiful Kashmiri Pashmina scarves.

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What is a Pashmina?

Pashmina, or Pashm, is the finest cashmere wool sourced from India, specifically the beautiful Himalayan Range Belt. Obtained from the native Changthangi goat, Pashmina wool is derived from their thick and soft coat and then put through the process of collection, spinning, weaving and dyeing to create a coveted Kashmiri Pashimina scarf or shawl.

 

LET’S TALK ABOUT THE PROCESS

Collection

The Changthangi goat produces thick wool coat during the colder winter months and then sheds this during the molting season in the spring and summer. Once shed or sheared, the inner wool is carefully collected and put through a sanitation process.  

Spinning

The next step in producing a Pashmina scarf or shawl is spinning. This process is completed by hand on a traditional spinning wheel known as a “charkha.” Prior to spinning, the wool is thoroughly cleaned and stretched before soaking in a mixture of water and rice to add softness. Once dried, the fibers are carefully spun by hand to create a beautiful, supple and sturdy thread. These threads are then wound on wooden spindles known as “prech” to prepare for the next step in the process.

Weaving

Once the Pashmina threads are created, the next step is to weave them together into the actual fabric for the scarf or shawl. Due to their fragile nature, weaving is traditionally done by hand using a shuttle. This process is called “Wonun” and involves a local artisan known as a “Wovur” using both their hands and feet simultaneously to weave together a beautiful fabric.

Dyeing

After the fabric is fully woven, the final step in the process is dyeing, or adding color, to the piece. Like the other steps in the process, this is done completely by hand, using natural sources to create rich colors and eco-friendly designs.