Cashmere is the finest wool procured from Changra species of Goats. The wool is the finest cashmere from all the Cashmere produced in the world. There are diverse breeds in the world of cashmere-producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The breeds include Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce Cashmere wool that produces warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is a rare species of goats that produce the finest Cashmere in the world.
How is the finest Cashmere procured?
Changhthanghi goats in the region of Ladakh
A rare species of Goats known as Changhthanghi Goats have an undercoat of Pashmina wool around their bodies to prevent the harsh winters from entering their bodies. They are medium-sized goats with two twisted horns. They develop the wool on their bodies while the winter is at its peak and the temperature goes to a minimum of minus 40 degrees Celsius. Eventually, when the season of winter changes to summer, the goats shed this wool off by rubbing it with rocks and barks. The herders also comb the excess wool off to sell in the market. Due to the rare species of Goats, the portion of Ladakhi Cashmere herders acquires is 80 to 160 gms a year. The wool is fine Cashmere wool.
The Craft of Pashmina in Kashmir
Tufts of cashmere fibre sent from Ladakh to the artisans for crafting
Pashmina is the crafting of Ladakh Cashmere wool to several fine accessories through hand-processes in Kashmir. The finest Ladakhi Cashmere is crafted for many fine accessories of Cashmere through the Art of Pashmina. The artisans work meticulously on each and every piece of fine Cashmere. When the tufts of Cashmere wool reach Kashmir from Ladakh, the wool is cleaned, soaked, and dried to free from any impurity. Thus, the Cashmere wool undergoes the first process of Pashmina Art. Afterward, the fine and cleaned Cashmere is transferred to the local houses for the process of Spinning.
The process of Spinning is transforming fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn. The women in the households perform the precise process of Spinning. The Spinning process needs patience and precision. While humming the traditional Kashmir songs, the women meticulously spin the Cashmere wool on a wooden wheel called yinder. Therefore, the Cashmere yarn was formed to make it go forward to the next intricate process of Weaving.
Afterward, the spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine Cashmere fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively a masterpiece in itself.
Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere in Kashmir. There are three main styles in the craft of Pashmina including Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls. We, at pashmina.com craft the finest Cashmere to the diverse designs to showcase the collection rich in heritage and culture. Pashmina is the crafting held together by skilled artisans working on each masterpiece very precisely with the hues of traditions and nature.
Cashmere is the finest wool procured from Ladakh and crafted in the valley of Kashmir. The definition of Pashmina is linked with the etiquette of crafting the finest Cashmere. There are several breeds of Cashmere-producing goats all over the world. There is also a specific amount of Cashmere production from each breed. The finest of all is the Ladakhi Cashmere procured from the feet of the Changhthanghi range. After procurement, the fine-quality Cashmere is crafted in the valley of Kashmir to curate the fine Pashmina accessories under three main styles viz; Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps, and Pashmina Shawls. All three styles have elegant and versatile designs under their category. Therefore, the definition of each is mandatory to know about. Before knowing the process of the Pashmina Craft, how Pashmina came into existence is required.
How did Pashmina come into existence?
It all started when a Persian saint was travelling across the globe. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the Middle East came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvellous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley. Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles.
Empress Josephine in Kani Pashmina Shawl
The craft of Pashmina reigns in the beauty of Kashmir since the 13th century. It is a gift from the saint of Persia who discovered the rare species of Goats in Chanthanghi. He entailed the luxury of Pashmina Craft in Kashmir. Afterwards, the royals adorned the Craft of Pashmina. It is an art that prevailed through centuries proving its legacy all over the world including European aristocrats and Armenian merchants. For centuries, Europeans were the largest owners of Pashmina accessories. French empress Josephine owned more than 400 Kani Pashmina Shawls from Kashmir to supplicate her beauty with luxury. In India, the Mughals had a great affinity with Pashmina Craft. Emperor Akbar had such a fondness for the Pashmina shawl that he gave it an admirable nickname, "parm-narm" meaning “supremely soft”.
How is the fine Cashmere procured for Cashmere Scarves?
Changra goat gently being combed
Changhthanghi mountains are one of the coldest parts of Ladakh where temperature goes to -40 degrees. A rare breed of goats lives in the minus temperature. They are called Changra Goats. These goats develop thick wool on their bodies to combat the harsh winter. Eventually, seasons change. In summer, the Changra Goats shed off the thick wool against rocks and trees due to the heat in the air. The wool is also manually combed out by the herders. The herders of the Changpa tribe manually combed out the wool. The wool is called Cashmere wool. It is the softest and finest wool. The wool is further crafted in the horizons of Kashmir Valley in the name of Pashmina Art to craft luxurious Cashmere Scarves.
Art of Pashmina begins as soon as the packets of Cashmere wool reach the valley of Kashmir. The tufts of Cashmere wool are cleaned, soaked, and dried to further get the premium Cashmere wool. Further moved ahead to the process of Spinning. Spinning is the meticulous process of transforming Cashmere wool into the finest cashmere yarn. Mostly, womenfolk of the Kashmir Valley perform the meticulous process of Spinning. After the Spinning process, the fine Cashmere yarn is moved to the next process called Weaving.
Cashmere Weaving on a Classic Handloom
The process of Weaving is intricately turning the Cashmere yarn into the finest Cashmere fabric. The warps and wefts are sophistically woven with each other to present the meticulous Cashmere Fabric to the further process of designing. Mostly done by the menfolk of the valley on the handlooms made of forest wood. The artisans weave by using their feet in coordination with their hands. The meticulous harmony of aura and artisan creates the fine Cashmere Fabric.
Cashmere Scarves are the accessories of luxury as well as fashion. The style quotient of Cashmere Scarves makes the wearer glamorous. There are several ways to wear elegant Cashmere Scarves. Men as well as women have witnessed many exquisite collections of Cashmere Scarves for the apparel to scream the name of luxury. Cashmere Scarves provide the warmth of the fine Cashmere wool. In addition, Cashmere Scarves not only keep the warmth in the neck on a cold winter day but also add elegance and style to the outfit in all seasons.
In addition, the unique crafting of Cashmere Scarves obliges the artistic hand of Artisans. Hence, the artisans of the valley are highly skilled artisans who are the masters of Pashmina Art. Generations of artisans are working in the tranquil field of Pashmina. They breathe Pashmina, they live underneath Pashmina. Therefore, the exquisite craft is dignified in the realms of Kashmir Valley. Thus, the profound craft feels the dimensions of Cashmere Scarves. Mainly, there are two sizes for Cashmere Scarves. They are; 80in x 14in/2m x 35cm and 80in x 28in/2m x 70cm. The dimensions of each Scarf befit royal fashion as well as contemporary fashion.
As per the required fashion sense, the Scarves are designed in three different forms including Ombre Cashmere Scarves, Swarovski Crystals Cashmere Scarves, and Solid Cashmere Scarves. On the other hand, in Men's Pashmina, there are several designs in Cashmere Scarves including Patterned, Kani, Shibori, etc. The intricacy and craftsmanship in the crafting of designs are glorious in themselves.
Pashmina Shawl is an accessory of luxury and fashion. There is a tale of Pashmina craft that reflects the main styles in the definition of luxury. Pashmina Shawl is a traditional shroud crafted in the valley of Kashmir with high skill. Crafting a Pashmina Shawl is in itself a luxury. Therefore, redefined through the nature and grace of Kashmir, Pashmina Shawls are versatile accessories that define the fashion realm in a different way.
The handcrafted Pashmina has been on the journey of love for all people from many eras. Also, it has been a part of the legacy of many different forms and designs. It gathers itself around several other crafts with definite creativity. The handloom is used for the process of weaving Cashmere wool and adorning the ravishing Pashmina Shawl. The Cashmere fibres, woven manually and gradually give rise to meticulous Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that crafting of finest Cashmere for several accessories is the Art of Pashmina. Moreover, the weaving and interweaving of the fine wool are accompanied by the handwork of artisans. Thus, they can weave the finest wool on a handloom to get the desired look of Cashmere. Thereby, curating them into Pashmina Shawls for the bliss of souls.
How is fine Cashmere procured?
Himalayan Cashmere goat
It all begins in the Changhthanghi mountain of the Ladakh region in the Himalayas. The temperature goes to the minimum in this region. A rare breed of goats dwell in the region. These goats are called Changra goats. They are also called Cashmere Goats. The goats develop a pelage of wool in the winter season to combat the harsh weather. Thereafter, in summer they shed off the wool to get the air. The wool is manually combed out by the herders of the Changpa tribe. The Changpa tribe mainly raises these medium-sized Changra goats with two twisted horns. In addition, they mainly raise them for wool production. Thus, the wool is called the finest Cashmere wool.
Craft of Pashmina
Pashmina is the crafting of Ladakh Cashmere wool to several fine accessories through hand-processes in Kashmir. The finest Ladakhi Cashmere is crafted for many fine accessories of Cashmere through the Art of Pashmina. The artisans work meticulously on each and every piece of fine Cashmere. When the tufts of Cashmere wool reach Kashmir from Ladakh, the wool is cleaned, soaked, and dried to free from any impurity. Thus, the Cashmere wool undergoes the first process of Pashmina Art. Afterward, the fine and cleaned Cashmere is transferred to the local houses for the process of Spinning.
Artisan weaving Pashmina on wooden handloom
The process of Spinning is transforming fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn. The women in the households perform the precise process of Spinning. The Spinning process needs patience and precision. While humming the traditional Kashmir songs, the women meticulously spin the Cashmere wool on a wooden wheel called yinder. Therefore, the Cashmere yarn was formed to make it go forward to the next intricate process of Weaving.
Afterward, the spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine Cashmere fabric. Also, the intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself.
Crafting the fine Pashmina Shawls
Pashmina shawls have been the most diverse craft in the world of Pashmina. They are the most requisite part of the celebration for lovers of nature. Pashmina Shawls are the most versatile and presentable craft in the fashion world. They are diversified into various designs and styles to bring forth the best versions of you on any occasion initiating the happiness of the time ahead. Thus, the exploration of Shawls is described with a love for supreme glory and authenticity.
The dimensions of a Pashmina shawl are among these;
Artisans believe in the glory of Shine of Hue Aksi Pashmina Shawl by engaging in the luxury of the presence
We, at pashmina.com have a blissful collection of Pashmina Shawls to adorn the beauty of each fashion style. Beautifully crafted in the valley of Kashmir, the Pashmina Shawls are versatile. Defined with the supremacy of the modern touch, luxury is filled with the days of fashion. Therefore, having a masterpiece of Pashmina is itself an epitome of luxurious fashion in the world of modernism.
Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere procured from Ladakh. The definition of the Craft is witnessed by the heritage of the Valley of Kashmir. Pashmina Craft is the craft of Kashmir from the 13th century. The beauty of every dime of Pashmina enthrals the viewer as it reflects the nature of Kashmir in every inch of its being. The finest Cashmere is procured with diligence to be crafted in Kashmir to diverse styles. An essence is crafted when fine Cashmere is defined with Pashmina Craft. Artisans define the luxury of Pashmina Craft by signing the token of intricacy on each masterpiece crafted in the valley.
Pashmina Craft is the token of luxury for the fashion world. The craft is defined with the words of intricacy and luxury. The endless journey of Pashmina Craft in the valley of Kashmir started in the 13th century. From that century to today's century, the craft is filled with exuberant definitions of luxury. In addition, the defining beauty of each masterpiece requires intricate hand skill as well as the inspiration of culture.
Procuring the finest Cashmere from the feet of Changhthanghi
Changra goat in the Changhthanghi region of Ladakh
The process begins in the realm of the Changhthanghi mountain of Ladakh. The temperature goes to a minimum in winter. A rare breed of Goats lives in the minus temperature. They are called Changra Goats. These goats develop thick wool on their bodies to combat the harsh winter. Eventually, seasons change. In summer, the Changra Goats shed off the thick wool against rocks and trees due to the heat in the air. The wool is also manually combed out by the herders. The herders of the Changpa tribe manually combed out the wool. The wool is called Cashmere wool. It is the softest and finest wool. The wool is further crafted in the horizons of Kashmir Valley in the name of Pashmina Art.
Crafting in the Luxury of Pashmina
The first step is cleaning the Cashmere wool. There is a thorough cleaning of the wool to get all sorts of dirt out. After the process of cleaning, the next step is the procedure of Spinning. It begins by giving the local women the Cashmere wool to spin fine Cashmere yarn. The womenfolk of the valley mainly spin Cashmere wool. The process is done on the wooden wheel/charkha called tinder in the local language. Thus, the women artisans meticulously spin the Cashmere wool to the miraculously fine Cashmere yarn.
The weaving of solid Pashmina takes 3-4 days on the wooden handloom
Afterwards, the spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine Cashmere fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself.
Further, the Cashmere fabric goes on to the designing process. The design starts as soon as the Cashmere fabric reaches the hands of artisans. Thus, creating a wide array of masterpieces. Henceforth, the Art of Pashmina is the creation of diverse accessories from the finest Cashmere. The styles and designs perform the ways of luxurious fashion in the most elegant looks providing men the opportunity to show their ways of fashion to the world.
History of Pashmina Craft
A Persian saint was travelling across the globe during the 13th century. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the Middle East came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvellous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley. Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles.
A one-of-a-kind Luxurious qualities
There are several qualities of Pashmina as a craft that it is given the token of one-of-a-kind luxury. Some are enumerated below;
1. Pashmina - The finest Cashmere is crafted
Ladakhi Cashmere is the finest Cashmere produced in the world. There are diverse breeds of cashmere-producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz; Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth. Therefore, the exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is a rare species of goats that produce the finest Cashmere for Pashmina crafting.
2. The low production
The Changra Goats produce fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there are almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Cashmere Scarves, and Cashmere Wraps.
3. Handspun and Handwoven
Artisan spinning the cashmere on yinder
Pashmina Crafting begins when the fine Cashmere is cleaned in the valley of Kashmir. There is a proper cleaning of the Cashmere wool to get out all the dirt and grime from the fine wool. Afterwards, the fine Cashmere wool is taken to the homes of Kashmir where the women of households spin the wool into yarn. The process takes place on a traditional wheel called Yinder in the local language. The wool is hand-spun on the wheel and crafted with long and fine Cashmere yarns.
Further, the fine yarns are transferred to local workshops to get woven on the traditional handloom by the weavers. The fine yarn is woven using hands and feet on the handlooms to get the fine Cashmere fabric. Also, the handlooms are made of forest wood and are one of the traditional equipment for the Pashmina Crafting. Weaving the Cashmere yarns is an extensive as well as intricate work done by the artisans of the valley of Kashmir for generations.
Handcrafted flawlessly over the period of a few months, Kani shawls of Kashmir were the ones that Empress Josephine chose to accessorize frequently
There are various designs in each of the three styles of Pashmina Craft. The hand-crafted designs showcase the luxury of Pashmina craft through versatility. They confer to the traditional as well as contemporary eras of fashion. In addition, the hand-crafted designs complement the overall definition of exclusivity and luxury. The designs are exclusive as well as elegant to showcase each fashion statement efficiently.
Pashmina is the art of handcrafting luxury wraps and apparel from Cashmere wool which grows on the undercoat of a rare goat species in Ladakh. The luxury wraps and accessories produced from this fine and soft raw wool take from a few months to some years to complete, be it a Pashmina shawl, scarf, or fabric. Cashmere is acquired from Ladakh, but its entire processing takes place in Kashmir. From cleaning the raw wool to spinning and weaving, finishing and embroidery, all expertise is indigenous to Kashmir. It is the masterly skills of Kashmiri artisans that transform a lump of soft wool into world-famous wrap accessories.
Pashmina is made from Cashmere wool
Changthangi goats in Ladakh
Pashmina products are made of Cashmere. Raw wool or Cashmere is sourced from Ladakh. A region known as Changthang lies over 14000 feet above sea level. This area is home to the Changthangi goat which naturally grows fine Cashmere as an undercoat to survive in the harsh winters. The temperature in winter goes down to even -40 degrees. Therefore, it is this fine down coat of the goat that protects it. As summer arrives the coat makes the goat uneasy. So it rubs itself against rough surfaces and gets rid of some portion of the wool. Consequently, the rest of the wool is ethically combed off its body by professionals and herders and what we get is a lump of exceptionally soft wool. This soft blob is to be processed, which takes place in Kashmir.
Processing of the wool
The wool is sent to Kashmir, where womenfolk start with cleaning and sorting of the wool. Once it is clean, it is fixed onto a wooden spinning wheel called Yinder. Yinder helps spin the lump of wool into fine and delicate yarn, which has a diameter of 12-16 microns. This exceptionally fine yarn is later sent to weavers
Weaving of Pashmina on handloom
Weavers mount the fine yarn onto the heddles of a handloom. The handloom is a classic wooden handloom, which has been used to weave Pashmina from centuries together. Accordingly, weavers spend 3 to 5 days to produce one shawl or scarf or any other fabric depending upon the size. This is the production process of a Pashmina shawl. The shawl acquired from this process is plain and needs some more detailing, finishing, or embroidery
Embroidering a Pashmina
Tilla embroidery being done on Pashmina
Only hand embroidery is suitable for Pashmina. Since the base is extremely fine and delicate, machine embroidery can cause harm to it. Usually, Sozni embroidery, Tilla embroidery, and Papier Mache embroidery are done on Pashmina. It is, hence, again, only Kashmiri artisans who can embroider Pashmina shawls with utmost finesse and pattern and in the same traditional and classic fashion as royalty all over the world would cherish.
Pashmina Vs other wool types
Technically speaking, Cashmere, which is used to make Pashmina shawls, is not a wool type, but animal hair. As such, it is fine and smooth when compared to other types of warm fabrics. Pashmina is considered 8 times warmer than sheep wool, yet exceptionally light and fine. The owners of Pashmina shawls never need to wear thick sweaters and cardigans as Pashmina shawls are warm and comfortable enough for winter or fall seasons.
Why is Pashmina Special?
Defining the miracle of Pashmina craft, the Rafiiush Shaan Do-Rukha Pashmina Shawl is a magnificent creation by the artisans
Pashmina is really special for the people of Kashmir. The reason for this is the olden times when the economy of Kashmir wasn't very favorable, and a few locals literally starved. At this time, a saint visited the valley from Persia, and along with him came some immensely talented craftsmen. These craftsmen had a huge know-how of a variety of crafts which was transferred to the locals. Hence the locals now became knowledgeable craftsmen and could work with their own hands.
As a result, locals could now make copper vessels, Papier Mache items, carpets, jewelry, and more by themselves and earn a decent living. But the most famous and more chosen art form was that of making Pashmina shawls. More and more people from the remotest corners of the valley were allured by the art of Pashmina. They, hence became spinners, weavers, or embroiderers of the same. As a result, Pashmina shawls from Kashmir reached their zenith. Now, patrons all around the world prefer Pashmina shawls from Kashmir to those produced in other regions of the world.
For this region, the people of Kashmir became more emotionally attached to this art, as it survived them during the hardest phases of their life. The same craftsmen who couldn't afford even the basic things could now travel from one country to another for training purposes. Pashmina is, undoubtedly, special for its finesse and warmth. But more, for the way it glorified the valley and made it visible to the outside world, which perhaps didn't even know where Kashmir was.
Pashmina is made from the Cashmere wool of three Changthangi goats. One goat produces around 150 grams of Cashmere, and hence depending upon the size of the shawls, the wool is used. For one full Pashmina shawl of size 100*200 cm, wool from 3 - 4 goats is used. Pashmina is season-dependent. One has to wait for an entire year to get Cashmere from Ladakh.
Cashmere is the finest wool procured in Ladakh. Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere wool. Pashmina is a versatile craft filled with exuberant styles and designs. There are mainly three styles viz; Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls. In addition, there are numerous designs in the field of Pashmina. To know about each is a journey in itself. A definition is reserved for Pashmina in the realm of art. It is that Pashmina is an art form of intricate skill inspired by the heritage and traditions of Kashmir Valley. Cashmere is procured ethically and further crafted in Kashmir to the styles.
Firstly, fine Cashmere is procured
Himalayan Changra goat in Ladakh region
It all begins in the Changhthanghi mountain of the Ladakh region. The temperature goes to the minimum in this region. A rare breed of goats dwell in the region. These goats are called Changra goats. They are also called Kashmir Goats. The goats develop a pelage of wool in the winter season to combat the harsh weather. Thereafter, in summer they shed off the wool to get the air. The wool is manually combed out by the herders of the Changpa tribe. The Changpa tribe mainly raises these medium-sized Changra goats with two twisted horns. They mainly raise them for wool production. Thus, the wool is called the finest Cashmere wool.
Pashmina is the crafting of Ladakh Cashmere wool to several fine accessories through hand-processes in Kashmir. The finest Ladakhi Cashmere is crafted for many fine accessories of Cashmere through the Art of Pashmina. The artisans work meticulously on each and every piece of fine Cashmere. When the tufts of Cashmere wool reach Kashmir from Ladakh, the wool is cleaned, soaked, and dried to free from any impurity. Thus, the Cashmere wool undergoes the first process of Pashmina Art. Afterward, the fine and cleaned Cashmere is transferred to the local houses for the process of stretching and spinning.
The process of Spinning is transforming fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn. The women in the households perform the precise process of Spinning. The Spinning process needs patience and precision. While humming the traditional Kashmir songs, the women meticulously spin the Cashmere wool on a wooden wheel called yinder. Therefore, the Cashmere yarn was formed to make it go forward to the next intricate process of Weaving.
Afterward, the spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine Cashmere fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself.
From the Changra goats of Changhthanghi, the finest Cashmere is obtained. After moving along the cradle of Pashmina Art, the versatile style of Cashmere Wraps came into existence. The unique and intricate designs in each style of Cashmere Wrap belong to exquisite fashion. On the horizon of the valley, the artisans with diligence preserve the heritage in each masterpiece of the valley.
Moreover, Wrap is the newer term for the outer clothing that covers the body. All shawls and stoles can come under the term of Wraps but not all wraps are shawls. In other words, the Word Wrap means "the outer covering". Therefore, in the fashion world, wraps are precisely termed accessories that cover the outer body. In the world of fashion, it's a contemporary term. Cashmere Wraps are supremely premium quality accessories. Therefore, crafted with precision and skill, they belong to the class of originality.
In modern times, the word itself is the culmination of contemporary style. So are the Cashmere Wraps. The diverse designs in the style of these wraps create a sense of luxury for the wearer. Further, the heritage, culture, and skill of the artisans profuse a dimension of glory in each masterpiece. Therefore, in one or another way, Cashmere Wraps confers to the premium luxury to both men and women. The dimensions of Cashmere Wrap are 80in x 28in/2m x 70cm.
The Beauty of Luxurious Collection
Crafted with precise details in the design, the cashmere wrap cherishes each motif of florets to bloom in the garden of nature
We, at pashmina.com have a blissful collection of Cashmere Wraps to adorn the beauty of each fashion style. Beautifully crafted in the valley of Kashmir, the Cashmere Wraps are versatile. Defined with the supremacy of the modern touch, luxury is filled with the days of fashion. Therefore, having a masterpiece of Pashmina is itself an epitome of luxurious fashion in the world of modernism.
Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere procured from Ladakh. The way of crafting is highly magnificently done in Kashmir Valley. The divinity of each masterpiece of Pashmina Craft is up to the mark of luxury. The crafting , defined with intricacy in the valley of Kashmir. The valley has been cherishing the Craft of Pashmina for ages. The horizons of Kashmir have welcomed the Craft in the era of the 13th century.
When a Persian saint was traveling across the globe in the 13th century, the Pashmina Craft began. Mir Syed Ali Hamdani was a sage from the Middle East. The footprints of a saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani from the Middle East came to Kashmir with 700 craftsmen to adorn the beauty of the valley and to spread the holy message. He rested his feet in the region of Changhthanghi Ladakh. Thus, the saint landed its appearance in the Changhthangi Mountain in Ladakh. While perceiving nature, he locked his eyes on the Goat of marvelous wool. Awestruck with the softness and fineness of the wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the Sultan Zain-ul-Abideen of Kashmir Valley. Perceiving the beauty of Cashmere wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina in desirable styles.
Also, the name Pashmina, derived from the Persian word, pashm, meaning "the soft gold" is exquisite in being. In addition, the exquisite luxury of the Pashmina Shawl is beautified with the high skill of artisans who have worked day and night to unravel the marvels of Pashmina as a Crafting of the finest Cashmere.
Pashmina Craft - How is fine Cashmere procured?
Cashmere goats in Ladakh
It all starts in the realms of the Changhthanghi mountain of Ladakh. The temperature goes to a minimum in winter. A rare breed of Goats lives in the minus temperature. They are called Changra Goats. These goats develop thick wool on their bodies to combat the harsh winter. Eventually, seasons change. In summer, the Changra Goats shed off the thick wool against rocks and trees due to the heat in the air. The wool is also manually combed out by the herders. The herders of the Changpa tribe manually combed out the wool. The wool is called Cashmere wool. It is the softest and finest wool. The wool is further crafted in the horizons of Kashmir Valley in the name of Pashmina Art.
Pashmina Craft - The crafting begins
Art of Pashmina begins as soon as the packets of Cashmere wool reach the valley of Kashmir. The tufts of Cashmere wool are cleaned, soaked, and dried to further get the premium Cashmere wool. Further moved ahead to the process of Spinning. Spinning is the meticulous process of transforming Cashmere wool into the finest cashmere yarn. Mostly, womenfolk of the Kashmir Valley perform the meticulous process of Spinning. After the Spinning process, the fine Cashmere yarn is moved to the next process called Weaving.
Crafting of Pashmina on the wooden handloom
The process of Weaving is intricately turning the Cashmere yarn into the finest Cashmere fabric. The warps and wefts are sophistically woven with each other to present the meticulous Cashmere Fabric to the further process of designing. Mostly done by the menfolk of the valley on the handlooms made of forest wood. The artisans weave by using their feet in coordination with their hands. The meticulous harmony of aura and artisan creates the fine Cashmere Fabric.
Further, the Cashmere fabric goes on to the designing process. The design starts as soon as the Cashmere fabric reaches the hands of artisans. Thus, creating a wide array of masterpieces. Henceforth, the Art of Pashmina is the creation of diverse accessories from the finest Cashmere. The versatile designs contribute to the world of luxury in several ways. The distinct styles cater to all genders. The styles and designs perform the ways of luxurious fashion in the most elegant looks.
Diverse Styles in Pashmina Craft
There are three main styles in Pashmina Craft viz: Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls. All three styles crafted with utmost precision to ensure the beauty of the traditions of Kashmir. Every style has its unique set of designs that reflect the intricacy of the Craft.
Surreal Pashmina Shawls
The shawl is a legacy of artistic work, which has been alive since centuries in Kashmir
Pashmina Shawls are intricate Pashmina accessories filled with exuberant designs. The endlessly hand-crafted in the cradle of Kashmir, the beauty of traditional designs suffix luxury. The artisans have quoted the beauty of the Pashmina Shawl for generations. The Pashmina Shawl is a shroud of the heritage of the Craft of Pashmina. From the Solid Pashmina Shawl to the intricate Kani Pashmina Shawl, the art defines the realm of fashion. The versatile craft caters to the beautiful design of Pashmina Shawls. Each Shawl serves an elegant purpose to the fashion world as well as to nature. Therefore, the glamorous warmth of Pashmina shawls belongs to scenes of nature.
Illuminating Cashmere Wraps
Handwoven over a traditional loom and bedazzled by Zari embroidery, a Kashmiri Cashmere Wrap is all your winter occasions need
The handcrafted Cashmere Wraps are the accessories that ravishingly explicit the beauty within the creation of a particular wrap. In the world of modernization, contemporary designs in the art of Pashmina are a must. Moreover, Pashmina in the form of wraps has reached heights unending as the hand-crafted wraps bestowed glamour in various directions of fashion and luxury. Thus, there are several designs and patterns in the creation of Cashmere Wraps viz., Solid Cashmere wraps, Ombre wraps, Laced Wraps, Swarovski Wraps, Printed Wraps, Embroidered Wraps, and Kani Pashmina Wraps.
The authenticity of the rarest and finest Cashmere, seen in the shadow of the Cashmere Wraps is exquisite. So, elegance with the creation of sustainable fashion is subsumed in the creation of radiant and ravishing wraps that go well with every attire of any kind. The Cashmere Wraps are among the high-quality luxurious masterpieces that can be a revere to the presence of whosoever is wearing them. Therefore, the opulent Cashmere Wraps along with the creativity and hard work of artisans are the exquisite and extraordinary styles of Pashmina in the field of serene craft.
With a melange of colours spread across the scarf, this heavenly souvenir from the mighty Himalayas is perfect for the off-duty or work-from days
Cashmere Scarves are the most stylish and elegant forms of Pashmina accessory. Moreover, belonging to the class of modernization in its Art, these are most cherished and admired for their unique utility and style for everyday life. Moreover, there are diverse designs in the creation of Cashmere Scarves. Each describes beauty without limits. Also, the luxurious Cashmere Scarves, worn to beautify the beautiful distinct patterns are fine. Thus, the Cashmere Scarves are looked upon among the souls with the gratification of being the most opulent significance. In addition, the Scarves relish the entire modernization and contemporary crafts.
There are diverse breeds of cashmere-producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz; Australian Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth.
In addition, the Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there are almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world. Consequently, the production caters to the manufacture of different styles like Pashmina Shawls, Scarves, and Wraps.
There are several ways of knowing if Cashmere is real or not. Some are enumerated below.
The Manual procuring from Ladakh
Changra goats in Ladakh
It all starts in the realms of the Changhthanghi mountain of Ladakh. The temperature goes to a minimum in winter. A rare breed of Goats lives in the minus temperature. They are called Changra Goats. These goats develop thick wool on their bodies to combat the harsh winter. Eventually, seasons change. In summer, the Changra Goats shed off the thick wool against rocks and trees due to the heat in the air. Also manually combed out by the herders. The herders of the Changpa tribe manually combed out the wool. The wool is called Cashmere wool. It is the softest and finest wool. Further crafted in the horizons of Kashmir Valley in the name of Pashmina Art. Only the rare species called Changra Goats develop the finest wool. Therefore, the finest of all is procured from Ladakh only.
The Fine microns
Raw cashmere fibre
The finest Cashmere is about 10 to 16 microns in diameter. It is the finest of all that is produced in the world. Ladakhi Cashmere is of a high quality with fine microns. This quality makes it a one-of-a-kind luxury wool crafted in Kashmir for premium Pashmina accessories.
Handspun and Handwoven Cashmere
The first step is cleaning the wool. There is a thorough cleaning of the wool to get all sorts of dirt out. After the process of cleaning, the next step is the procedure of Spinning. It begins by giving the local women the wool to spin fine yarn. The womenfolk of the valley mainly spin Cashmere wool. Done on the wooden wheel/charkha called yinder in the local language.
Weaving of Pashmina on handloom
Afterward, the spun yarn, taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself as the weave is irregular due to the Handcrafting.
Exclusive designs
Artisan designing inticrate embroidery on Pashmina shawl
The Cashmere fabric goes on to the designing process. The design starts as soon as the fabric reaches the hands of artisans. Thus, creating a wide array of masterpieces. Henceforth, the Art of Pashmina is the creation of diverse accessories from the finest wool. The styles and designs perform the ways of luxurious fashion in the most elegant looks providing men the opportunity to show their ways of fashion to the world. There are diverse designs in Pashmina Craft proving the versatility of the finest Cashmere. The high-end designs with such profuse intricacy define Pashmina Craft to a level of luxury. To check the quality, the handcrafted designs are proof that the fine Cashmere is used in the fabric base.
The Piling of pure Cashmere wool
Pilling of Cashmere scarf
When fine Cashmere accessories are used for a long time, there is always a chance of piling on the fabric. It is the token of purity and authenticity because fine wool will pile over a span of time. All the Cashmere piles but there is some difference in the way of piling. You can test this by gently rubbing your hand over the fabric several times. If the scarf piles immediately, that is a sign of lower quality and if it takes time, then the Cashmere is of high quality.
The Stretching of Fine Cashmere
It is evident from stretching the fine Cashmere that it is real or fake. If after stretching the fabric, it retains its shape, is high quality. On the other hand, if the fabric cannot retain its shape, the Cashmere is of low quality. This is a quick and subtle way of knowing the difference between a fine and a fake one.
Handcrafted from the luxuriously soft Ladakhi Cashmere, the shawl is handspun and handwoven for an absolute heirloom effect
The Pashmina Crafted accessories, tested in the laboratory specified to test the Pashminas. They ensure through examination that the Pashmina is hand-spun and hand-woven in Kashmir. In addition, they provide the authentication certificate called GI by testing the Pashmina exclusively through technical procedures. A geographical indication (GI) is a token attached to products that come from a specific geographical origin. To get a GI, a particular sign is used to identify a product having its manufacturing in a particular place. Moreover, geographical identification enables the craftsmanship of the place to only have the right to manufacture which means no third party can be applicable to manufacture the product.
Therefore, the GI authentication of Pashmina is performed by the Pashmina Testing & Quality Certification Centre, Craft Development Institute (CDI) located in Srinagar in a lab managed by the Government of India. Given after proper testing examining every fine Cashmere accessory.
Pashmina is the crafting of the finest Cashmere procured in Ladakh. After creating the fine Cashmere, there are three main styles in Craft including Wraps, Scarves, and Shawls. Pashmina Shawl is an accessory of luxury crafted elegantly in the valley of Kashmir. There are several steps in the craft of Pashmina. Therefore, all the steps are performed manually by the artisans of Kashmir. There is a long history of Pashmina in Kashmir and the craftsmanship of the people of Kashmir defines the beauty of each masterpiece. Thus, artisans of the valley work precisely on each masterpiece of the shawl to capture nature and traditions together.
Step 1: How is the finest Cashmere procured?
Changhthanghi Goat in Ladakh
A rare species of Goats known as Changhthanghi Goats have an undercoat of Cashmere wool around their bodies to prevent the harsh winters from entering their bodies. They are medium-sized goats with two twisted horns. They develop the wool on their bodies while the winter is at its peak and the temperature goes to a minimum of minus 40 degrees Celsius. Eventually, when the season of winter changes to summer, the goats shed this wool off by rubbing it with rocks and barks. Also, the herders comb the excess wool off to sell in the market. Due to the rare species of Goats, the portion of Ladakhi Cashmere herders acquires is 80 to 160 gms a year. The wool is fine Cashmere wool.
Step 2: Cleaning and Spinning
Raw cashmere wool
The foremost step is the cleaning of the Cashmere wool. There is a thorough cleaning of the wool to get all sorts of dirt out. After the process of cleaning, the next step is the process of Spinning. It begins by giving the local women the Cashmere wool to spin it fine Cashmere yarn. The womenfolk of the valley mainly spin the Cashmere wool. The process is done on the wooden wheel/charkha called yinder in the local language. Thus, the women artisans meticulously spin the Cashmere wool to the miraculously fine Cashmere yarn.
Step 3: Weaving of a Pashmina Shawl
Artisan weaving Pashmina on wooden handloom
The spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the transformation of Cashmere yarn to the fine Cashmere fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. Thus, a Pashmina Shawl is crafted. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself. The eloquently woven Cashmere fabric goes on to further design.
Step 4: Designing of a Pashmina Shawl
Designing a Pashmina shawl
The fine Cashmere base is further designed in the valley of Kashmir. The process of designing commences as soon as the faith of the finest Cashmere is adorned. The marvelous hands of artisans whirl in the designs and sing songs of art on the finest Cashmere. The surrounding aura of the valley signifies the profound design in diverse ways. The versatile designs include plain, shibori, ombre, laced, hand-embroidered, Kani, etc.
Pashmina shawls have been the most diverse craft in the world. The shawls for these occasions are the most requisite part of the celebration for lovers of nature. These are the most versatile and presentable craft in the fashion world. Pashmina Shawls are diversified into various designs and styles to bring forth the best versions of you on any occasion initiating the happiness of the time ahead. Thus, the exploration of Shawls is described with a love for supreme glory and authenticity.
Defining the history of Pashmina Shawls
The history of Cashmere goes back to the time of the 13th century when a saint from the Middle East with his 700 craftsmen visited the valley of Kashmir to propagate the message of Islam. On his visit to Ladakh, he encountered a rare Goat of Changra and combed the wool out of it. Mesmerized by the fine wool, he made socks out of it and gifted them to the ruler of Kashmir Valley. Therefore, suggested making a local industry go curate the fine wool and it commenced the Art of Pashmina. The wool was called Cashmere wool by the Europeans due to its resemblance to the word Kashmir. Thus, the whole journey defines the role of artisans in the creation of Pashmina.
Moreover, the royal kings of the medieval, as well as ancient times, draped the Pashmina Shawls for luxury and elegance. Noble kings used the Pashmina Shawls to glorify their presence. Akbar, the Mughal ruler was fond of the rich cultural Pashmina Art. Coming to the contemporary age, many influential people wear Cashmere accessories to amplify the styled look. From the eras gone by to the present eras, Cashmere accessories have come up with intricate designs and full elegance. In the present times, royal princes, celebrities, and local fashionistas have created an aura in the world of fashion by wearing the exquisite Pashmina.
A suave collection of handmade Pashmina shawls from Kashmir and Khumaar as their finest piece
We, at pashmina.com, have crafted a huge collection of Shawls. From Shibori to Solid and from Embroidered to Kani, Pashmina Shawls have been defined with luxury ever since. Relishing the intricate designs on each masterpiece is a form of luxury in itself. We have crafted a rich collection that caters to all genders. Also, his designs are an outlook of elegance to the hand-skill of artisans who have been inspiring the Craft of Pashmina for ages.
Cashmere is the fine wool procured from all over the world. There are three grades of Cashmere according to the quality level. Ladakhi Cashmere is the finest of all. There are diverse breeds of cashmere-producing goats. Each breed has a specific percentage of production in the total production. The several breeds viz; Australian Cashmere Goat, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, Hexi, Zhonghwei, Tibetan Plateau, Luliang breeds, Changthanghi, etc. Therefore, all the breeds produce the Cashmere wool that produces the warmth. The exclusive breed of goats called Changra Goats is a rare species of goats that produce the finest Cashmere which is adorned by the Craft of Pashmina.
In addition, the Goats produce the fine Cashmere wool once every year. Therefore, only around 80 to 170 gms of Ladakhi Cashmere are produced during a year. Therefore, considered the rarest. Also, other breeds of it produce several times more as there are almost 400 million Cashmere eliciting Goats all over the world.
On the other hand, Pashmina is the crafting of Ladakhi Cashmere procured. Pashmina is part of the heritage of Kashmir. Cashmere and Pashmina go to terms with each other. Therefore, there are basic differences as well as common journeys between the two.
What is Ladakhi Cashmere?
Cashmere is the wool procured from different breeds of goats all over the world. Ladakhi Cashmere is the finest Cashmere wool procured only from Ladakh. Changhthanghi mountain of Ladakh is one of the coldest ranges in Ladakh. The temperature goes to a minimum in winter. A rare breed of Goats lives in the minus temperature. They are called Changra Goats. These goats develop thick wool on their bodies to combat the harsh winter. Eventually, seasons change. In summer, the Changra Goats shed off the thick wool against rocks and trees due to the heat in the air. The wool is also manually combed out by the herders. The herders of the Changpa tribe manually comb out the wool. It is the softest and finest wool. It is specifically 10 to 16 microns in diameter.
What is Pashmina?
Artisan spinning the cashmere on yinder
Pashmina is the crafting of Ladakh Cashmere wool to several fine accessories through hand-processes in Kashmir. The finest Ladakhi Cashmere is crafted for many fine accessories of Cashmere through the Art of Pashmina. The artisans work meticulously on each and every piece of fine Cashmere. When the tufts of Cashmere wool reach Kashmir from Ladakh, the wool is cleaned, soaked, and dried to free from any impurity. Thus, the Cashmere wool undergoes the first process of Pashmina Art. Afterward, the fine and cleaned Cashmere is transferred to the local houses for the process of Spinning.
The process of Spinning is transforming fine Cashmere wool into Cashmere yarn. The women in the households perform the precise process of Spinning. The Spinning process needs patience and precision. While humming the traditional Kashmir songs, the women meticulously spin the Cashmere wool on a wooden wheel called yinder. Therefore, the Cashmere yarn formed to make it go forward to the next intricate process of Weaving.
Afterward, the spun Cashmere yarn is taken to the local workshops/karkhanas to move ahead in the Pashmina Art. The next process is the weaving process. The weaving is the conversion of Cashmere yarn to fine Cashmere fabric. The intricate warps and wefts create the beautiful woven Cashmere fabric. Therefore, the most common pattern in weave is chashm_e_bulbul or the diamond weave. The weave is exclusively the masterpiece in itself.
The Three main styles of Pashmina
There are three main styles in Pashmina Craft including Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls.
What is a Cashmere Wrap?
In the realm of Kashmir, the defining quality of each masterpiece is its hand-skilled crafting
From the Changra goats of Changhthanghi, the finest Cashmere is obtained. After moving along the cradle of Pashmina Art, the versatile style of Cashmere Wraps came into existence. The unique and intricate designs in each style of Cashmere Wrap belong to exquisite fashion. On the horizon of the valley, the artisans with diligence preserve the heritage in each masterpiece of the valley.
Moreover, Wrap is the newer term for the outer clothing that covers the body. All shawls, and stoles can come under the term of Wraps but not all wraps are shawls. In other words, the Word Wrap means "the outer covering". Therefore, in the fashion world, wraps are precisely termed accessories that cover the outer body. In the world of fashion, it's a contemporary term. Cashmere Wraps are supremely premium quality accessories. Therefore, crafted with precision and skill, they belong to the class of originality.
In modern times, the word itself is the culmination of contemporary style. So are the Cashmere Wraps. The diverse designs in the style of these wraps create a sense of luxury for the wearer. Further, the heritage, culture, and skill of the artisans profuse a dimension of glory in each masterpiece. Therefore, in one or another way, Cashmere Wraps confers to the premium luxury to both men and women.
What is a Cashmere Scarf?
The sign of Bold Shades Cashmere Scarf entangles with the living of opulence
The Pashmina Art bestows a glamorous accessory of Cashmere Scarves. The explicit and intricate creation of Cashmere Scarves from the finest Cashmere is tremendous. The different styles and designs confer to a unique amalgamation of luxury and Purity. The Cashmere Scarves perform in the realms of Pashmina Art with the most sophisticated of designs.
A scarf is a square piece of clothing draped around the neck or shoulders. The explicit styles with these finest Cashmere. The premium quality Cashmere scarves bring out the aura of colorful and elegant luxury. The versatile styles of unique designs of Cashmere Scarves are examples of high-class fashion. They cater to all genders with exquisite collections. The artisans work on each masterpiece with precision. Thus, providing serene exclusiveness.
Moreover, today's generation feels the aura of authentic Cashmere in their lifestyles. This proves that not only the royals but also the people of admiration for Pashmina wear the new-class Cashmere Scarves. In the contemporary world of fashion, the premium Cashmere scarves prove to be the confidante of authenticity.
Mubeen is an extravagant testimony to the glorious culture of Kashmiri Pashmina and Kani together
The handcrafted Pashmina has been on the journey of love for all people from many eras. It has been a part of the legacy of many different forms and designs. It gathers itself around several other crafts with definite creativity. The handloom is used for the process of weaving Cashmere wool and adorning the ravishing Pashmina Shawl. The Cashmere fibres, woven manually and gradually give rise to meticulous Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that crafting of finest Cashmere for several accessories is the Art of Pashmina. Moreover, the weaving and interweaving of the fine wool are accompanied by the handwork of artisans. They can weave the finest wool on a handloom to get the desired look of Cashmere. Thereby, curating them into Pashmina Shawls for the bliss of souls.
Pashmina shawls have been the most diverse craft in the world of Pashmina. Pashmina shawls for these occasions are the most requisite part of the celebration for lovers of nature. These are the most versatile and presentable craft in the fashion world. Pashmina Shawls are diversified into various designs and styles to bring forth the best versions of you on any occasion initiating the happiness of the time ahead. Thus, the exploration of Shawls is described with a love for supreme glory and authenticity.
