Pashmina is the traditional name for the finest of luxury wraps made from Cashmere wool. Pashmina, basically, is the unique art of converting fine Cashmere wool into luxury apparel and wraps or accessories. The best use of Cashmere wool is the world-famous Kashmiri Pashmina shawl, which is acquired from Kashmir, North India. Pashmina shawls haven't been famous just recently, but have a rich and glorious history of over 5 centuries. It was the 15th century when Cashmere wool was discovered in Ladakh, India. Since then, the wool has been continuously acquired and processed for months and at times for years to bring into existence Pashmina shawls. 

The Allure of Luxury Pashmina

Due to its unique softness and pleasant warmth, the Pashmina shawl is also known as the diamond fabric of Asia. It is one of the softest, finest, and most warm wraps ever to be found. For this reason, special care is to be taken with regard to its washing and storage. The way we wash it, the way we dry it or store it, all decide its future life and condition. When good care is taken of Pashmina, it looks forever fresh and graceful and acquires an heirloom look. 

How do you care for a Pashmina shawl?

When it comes to caring for a Pashmina shawl, every little step has to be taken into consideration. It starts with buying a pure piece from authentic vendors. Later, washing, drying, ironing, and storage all come into the realms of responsible Pashmina care. In fact, the way one wears a Pashmina shawl also accounts for its careful handling. Pashmina shawls are gentle and hence need a gentle treatment. This means washing it gently, drying it carefully, and storing it properly for using it the next time. This is how a Pashmina shawl will last for decades.

How to wash the Pashmina shawl?

Washing a Pashmina shawl needs extra care. You can send it for dry cleaning, but washing it at home with your hands gently is a better method. To do this, one has to be extremely careful. Start by soaking the Pashmina shawl in lukewarm water in which a Cashmere soap or shampoo of a good brand is mixed. After soaking for about 30 minutes, rinse it gently with your hands. Do not wring, just gently squeeze the water out by gently pressing it between your hands. Harshly washing Pashmina will reduce its life and give it a withering look after a few years of use. Rinse the shawl a couple of times and when you feel the water is running clear, prepare it for drying.

How to dry shawls made from Cashmere?

Drying a Pashmina shawl too needs special attention and care. The shawls should not be dried like other fabrics. They should never be tumble dried. Automatic dryers will ruin them of their natural sheen and smooth texture. These shawls should not even be hung from a wire or hook. This can lead to a permanent change in their shape and damage the look of the shawl forever. Instead, follow this step-by-step guide to drying a Pashmina shawl which might seem a bit tiring but worth the effort:

• As soon as you wash the shawl, lay it flat on a clean and dry towel.
• Roll the towel along with the shawl so that the towel absorbs all the excess water.
• Take this semi-dried Pashmina shawl, and lay it flat on another clean and dry towel. Let it stay like that (in a flat position over the towel) till the time it completely dries. 
• Do not place Pashmina in direct sunlight. Instead, place it inside the room or wherever direct sunlight doesn't fall. 

Ironing a Pashmina Shawl

If you need to iron a Pashmina shawl, choose professional ironing experts for the same. However, if this service is not available, one can do it at home, albeit carefully. If you are using an iron, make sure you put the heat on low, and place a cotton fabric in between the iron and the shawl. Iron the shawl carefully on a low heat setting and you’re good to go.

Also read: WHICH COUNTRY HAS THE BEST CASHMERE?

Storing a Pashmina Shawl

Storing a Pashmina shawl this year dictates its condition for the next season. If you carefully store these gentle accessories, their life extends and they can be worn for years to come. But improper storage of this fine wool shawl can create havoc as far as the quality of the shawl is concerned. Pashmina shawls are made of natural hair, and moisture and moths can damage them forever. Hence special care has to be taken while storing these. 

Store your luxury shawl on a well-cleaned and dry shelf. Remember to wrap it in tissue paper wrapping. Try to avoid cardboard boxes and plastic bags to store Pashmina scarves and shawls. These materials attract moisture. Make the place, you store Pashmina at, moth free. Place some naphthalene balls around the shelf. 

Also read: WHAT IS AN INDIAN PASHMINA?

Pashmina is the art of converting raw Cashmere wool into luxury wraps, shawls, and scarves. It is raw Cashmere that is processed, spun, woven, and formed into a fabric. This fabric is later transformed into Pashmina shawls, Pashmina scarves, Pashmina hijabs, etc. 

Indian Pashmina

In India, Pashmina goats are found in a number of places. But the best quality wool used to make Pashmina shawls, scarves or apparel comes from Ladakh, North India. Indian Pashmina is thus considered the world’s finest quality of this luxury art form. Even Though the raw wool for producing Pashmina shawls comes from Ladakh, its processing takes place in Kashmir. Let us dive deep into the origins and processing of raw Cashmere which results in the birth of the most luxurious shawls, scarves, stoles, apparel, and furnishing accessories.

Origin of Indian Pashmina

The fabric comes from Cashmere. Cashmere is goat hair that comes from Ladakh, (India) where the Changthangi goat resides. The area has grim climatic conditions, as the temperature in winter dips as low as -50 degrees in a few places. As a defense mechanism against such conditions, nature has bestowed the goat Cashmere which grows over its body as down fiber. However, as soon as summer arrives, the goat goes through hormonal changes and sheds the wool completely (some portion is manually combed off its body). Herders collect this wool to be combed and processed. Processing takes place in Kashmir where highly skilled craftsmen await. 

Processing raw Cashmere for luxury products

As soon as the wool reaches Kashmir, it is welcomed by cleaning and sorting it. Then it goes through spinning - a manual process, where lumps of wool are spun over a wooden spinning wheel. this process converts chunks of wool to yarn. This yarn is so fine that its diameter is just 12-16 microns. 

Yarn is now handed over to weavers. Weavers mount the yarn one by one over a handloom made of wood. After processing it for 3-4 days, hand-woven yarn is now fabric. This fabric is the Pashmina fabric as it is a result of converting Cashmere into luxury shawls, scarves, or stoles. The fabric can be sized according to the requirements. Pashmina shawls are 100*200 cm (approx.) Pashmina scarves are 70*200 cm (approx.) in size. 

History of Indian Pashmina

Indian Pashmina isn't an art from yesteryear. This art has been there for centuries. It has been the most sought-after art since the 16th century when it was first discovered in Kashmir. Indian Pashmina has been cherished by Mughal rulers, the Kashmiri King Zain Ul Abideen, Empress Josephine, Napoleon, Kings, and queens of Persia, and many more royal rulers of the largest dynasties. Kings from Kashmir used to give the rulers of other countries the special gifts of Pashmina shawls.

Present Scenario

Indian Pashmina has started to gain impetus in modern times too. Even though it started as a traditional accessory, it gained impetus as soon as it adapted to modern requirements. Conventional patterns and designs found it easy to mingle with Pashmina wraps, and the combination came out to be so elegant that royalty all over the world got swooned. Gone are the days when Pashmina shawls were either embroidered or plain. Now modish prints and patterns have found their way over the gossamer fine fabric.

Also read: LUXURY FESTOONS ON LACED PASHMINA

A few characteristics of Indian Pashmina

• Post weaving, a lump of Cashmere wool is converted to fabric, it is immensely fine and soft, heavenly smooth and warm. Here are some characteristics of Pashmina shawls and woven fabric
• A large Pashmina shawl weighs only around 400 grams. It only gains more weight if its is hand embroidered in Sozni, Tilla, or Papier mache embroidery
• The yarn which is spun to make the fabric is just 12-16 microns thick. That makes it 4 times thinner than a human hair!
• Pashmina shawls are 8 times warmer than sheep wool fabric but far warmer than these.
• Pashmina shawls are timeless. In fact, a 30-year-old shawl looks antique and more graceful than a fresh one. For this reason, ancient Kashmiri women gave their own Pashmina shawls to their newlywed daughters as a wedding gift. 
• As the fabric is gentle, only hand weaving is possible to make shawls or scarves out of it. Even if embroidery is needed, hand embroidery is the only option.
• Pashmina is softer compared to wool shawls. In addition to this, Pashmina shawls never cause skin allergies and are gentle to the skin too.

Indian Pashmina shawls are a must-have when it comes to winter accessories. The woven fabric produces shawls, stoles, and even apparel. It is a must for patrons of classic art to give it a try to each of them. Owing to their versatility, producers now produce furnishing accessories for Pashmina too. As such blankets, curtains, pillow covers, and lounge throws are also made in Pashmina art. How graceful can this art get!

Also read: CRAFTING OF AN AKSI PASHMINA SHAWL

When it comes to lifestyle, who doesn't love a little luxury? And when it comes to luxury, who can forget the classic Kashmiri Pashmina? The art of Pashmina sent a wave of excitement all over the world in the 18th century. It was the Pashmina shawl of Kashmir which was discovered in a quaint region of Ladakh. Yet it captivated the attention of the royals as it did of the commoners. What is Pashmina and what are Pashmina shawls, let us know more.

A large number of individuals have asked this question a hundred times before. They own a Pashmina scarf and suddenly come to know that it is banned! And they keep wondering, "why is Pashmina banned"? Is it cruel? Or Is it unhealthy? In fact, Is it even legal? And then suddenly they are informed that Pashmina is not banned at all (which is the reality), and are more confused. Should they wear it, should they buy it for that matter? We, being specialists in the art of Pashmina, debunk all myths regarding this fine wool today. 

What is Pashmina?

To understand the basis for its informally claimed ‘ban’, we need to know what Pashmina is and what is the basis for its ban (if at all). Pashmina is the classic art of converting Cashmere wool into luxury apparel and accessories. Cashmere wool is acquired from a large number of regions in Asia specifically, and processed for years together to bring into existence luxury sweaters, dresses, shawls, scarves and even furnishing items. 

The art of Pashmina has been excelled by artisans of Kashmir, North India. Pashmina Shawls from Kashmir have been world-famous since the 18th century, and so because of their unmatched quality. Cashmere is acquired from Ladakh and is processed by Kashmiri artisans for months or years together. This includes spinning the raw wool lumps, hand weaving fine fibre into the fabric, and finally embroidering and dyeing the fabric to bring into the fashion world luxury apparel or accessories. 

Is Pashmina Illegal?

For a long time now, discussion and arguments about the ban of Pashmina have disturbed its reputation in the international market, especially since concepts of veganism gained popularity. Animal cruelty is rising, and no individual in the world like to wear something that comes after killing an animal. Is Pashmina banned? Is it Illegal? Let us know

Pashmina is not illegal. It is Shahtoosh that is illegal. But there indeed are rumours that Pashmina is banned. This rumour is false and is spread usually by those individuals who have certain vested interests in creating this confusion among the masses. The reason for them doing this is that since Pashmina scarves are the best quality scarves available, their low-quality scarf gets adversely affected due to more demand for the former.

Difference between Pashmina and Shahtoosh

Both are obtained from the hair of goats which live at high altitudes. But there are several commonalities between the two. Shahtoosh is obtained from an endangered species of goats called Chiru, or the Tibetan Antelope. The animal has been listed on the endangered animal list under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Their fleece growing on the Tibetan Antelope is obtained by trapping it forcefully, killing it, and skinning the hair from its underbelly. Animal cruelty is the basic reason besides the decreasing number of Chiru goats, why Shahtoosh was banned.

But unfortunately, Shahtoosh is still being marketed due to high demand from the west. The reason for this high demand is the finesse, lightweight, extreme warmth and graceful look that Shahtoosh shawls lend to their wearer. A Shahtoosh shawl weighs less than half of Pashmina, and for this reason, it is too expensive. 

Shahtoosh is considered to be one of the world's finest wools and is considered the choice of the elite.

Also read: DO VEGANS WEAR CASHMERE SCARF?

Why Choose Pashmina?

Pashmina too is one of the best quality scarves, just not as fine as Shahtoosh. It is produced from the fine raw Cashmere wool which grows on the underbelly of the Ladakhi Changthangi goat. The main reason why it is not banned is that the Changthangi goat is domesticated. Hence, herders do not need to kill it for wool. The goats are professionally dealt with in hot summer, and the wool of their body is gently combed off. 

Pashmina scarves are soft, light and beautiful when embellished with embroidery. For this reason, these are more expensive than ordinary sheep wool scarves. 

The prices of Shahtoosh and Pashmina too differ. While a Shahtoosh shawl may even cost some 15-20 thousand dollars, the highest range of Pashmina will be around 10 thousand dollars (US).

As responsible citizens, we should consider the ban on shahtoosh a serious one. We should never try to buy or trade in shahtoosh, even if it is too alluring. On the other hand, there is no ban on Pashmina, and we can have as many pieces of the same as we want.

Also read: IS CASHMERE HIGH QUALITY?

In the lap of nature, the world resides with different ornamentations. Edges filled with the luxury of many handicrafts are explicit. Pashmina is one of the hand-crafted most unique styles of fashion that excels in the most opulent ways. There are various styles of Pashmina in the fashion world that cater to the high-quality luxurious outlook. In the form of Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina shawls, it has explored every style and design of its kind. Among all the luxurious designs, Laced Pashmina has worked its way towards the most embellished. Thereby, the type of Pashmina, where the French Chantilly Lace adorns the whole creation.

The opulent types of laced  Pashmina in the form of Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps, and Pashmina Shawls give rise to the most fashionable. The luxurious Lace over the shrouds of Handcrafted Pashmina is meticulously the most fashionable way of perceiving nature. Moreover, the opulent creation by the most skilled hands gives a new outlook to the Pashmina craft in the world of fashion.

Origin Of Pashmina in the lap of nature

The high-quality Cashmere is procured from the downy undercoat of the Changra breed of Goats from the Changthangh mountain of the Ladakh region. The Cashmere wool grown on the Changra goats is to combat the harsh winter season. Moreover, to overcome the heat of sunshine, it naturally sheds off fleece during the molting season. In addition, the fleece is also combed manually. Thereby, cultivated from nature to cherish every part of fleece. These are the finest fleece from the rarest breed of Changra. Belonging to the tribe of Changpa who are the traditional herders of Changra Goats. The finest fleece steps forward into the journey to exhibit a state of creativity called Pashmina.

Thereby, bringing the fleece of Cashmere to pour the quality of highness by cleaning the fibers. Afterward, the clean fibers are dried and soaked in the cast of sunlight. Cashmere wool, thereby translated into delicate yarn by the meticulous process called Spinning. Moreover, the artisans of the valley with the most skill in their beings work hard upon the ravishing yarn. The harmony of nature with artisans is enthralling to see. Therefore, they are meticulously working on the creation of Cashmere to preserve the life of nature. Afterward, the radiant yarns of Cashmere, are woven in the sphere of weavers with an appropriate approach. Thereby, Cashmere transformed into the most elegant Pashmina with several styles of luxury. From Ombre Pashmina to the Swarovski Crystals Pashmina, the astonishing Pashmina enthralls all the world thereby.

Laced Pashmina - Among Diversified Integrity

The evocative and opulent styles in the Craft of Pashmina look over the mountains of Changthang. In the form of Pashmina, it brings a vivid craft of Pashmina Shawls. The valley of Kashmir has artisans filled with the skill of the craft. The legacy of Cashmere goes back to the time of the Royals. Furthermore, the kingdoms filled with love and admiration for this explicit Craft are fulfilling the traditions of the valley.

Moreover, the uniqueness of Cashmere in the grade of Pashmina brings the various ways of Crafting it. The basic woven Cashmere with new styles and designs with the revere of creation. From the craft of heritage, a luxurious world of Ombre touches the fashion. The unique dyeing in gradience over the Pashmina gives a sense of fineness. The texture and overall look profuse from nature itself. Moreover, there are many more exquisite styles. Solid Cashmere is the most basic and elegant. Also, reversible Cashmere thus made with the accuracy of artisans on the handloom is high in quality. Furthermore, the Kani weave has witnessed every luxurious fashion of intricacy.

Moreover, the traditional and cultural designs of Printed Cashmere are explicitly exclusive. Likewise, Hand Embroidered Cashmere is the most opulent and intricate craft over the virtue of hand Crafted Cashmere. The revere of embroideries from the heritage of the valley beautifies every masterpiece of the Pashmina. Moreover, the embellished and luxurious Pashmina has given the way to the sky of uniqueness. The Laced and the Swarovski Crystals Pashmina are among the best embellished Pashmina. Moreover, several styles like Cashmere Scarves, Cashmere Wraps, and Pashmina Shawls cater to the luxury of Cashmere. Being bold in luxurious fashion has been the unique quality of versatile Pashmina.

Euphoric Handcrafted Laced Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina Shawls are an exquisite form of Fashion. The Hand Crafted Pashmina Shaws uniquely culminate from the Pure Cashmere. From the Changthanghi Mountains of the Ladakh region, the Changra breed of goats gives the best of Pure Cashmere. Thereby, woven into meticulous Pashmina to give the presence of nature on every edge. Furthermore, the Pashmina Shawls are given the best designs. The skilled hands of artisans perform over the Handcrafted Pashmina miraculously. From Ombre Pashmina Shawls to the intricate Embroidered Pashmina, the craft has reached its horizon of opulence.

The embellished and luxurious form of the Pashmina Shawl is the Laced Pashmina. The luxurious and precious French Chantilly Lace tched on the edges and in the hearts of the Pashmina Shawls is exquisite. The most intricate and opulent in the presence of the Laced Pashmina is the Craft of Pashmina. In addition, the skilled artisans work over every piece of Pashmina in the most graceful way to acquire the high-quality Pure Laced Pashmina.

Embellished Handcrafted Laced Cashmere Wraps

Hand Crafted Laced Cashmere is the exclusive form of Craft in the world of fashion. From the Changra breed of Goats at the foot of the Changthangh Mountain in the Ladakh Region, the finest Cashmere is obtained. Woven in the lap of the Valley of Kashmir On the handloom of wood. Furthermore, with the skilled hands of artisans, the Cashmere is embellished with Chantilly Lace. Adorned for the beautification of the Cashmere, the craft is perceived in the clan of luxury.

The beautified and opulent Craft in the Cashmere world is Laced Cashmere. In addition, the Cashmere Wraps, worn over every attire present a desired luxurious outlook. Amalgamating the two precious and finest crafts gives rise to more of an opulent and graceful craft. Therefore, the glory of the heritage with the contemporary style of accessories is explicit. The craft of Cashmere is extraordinarily the most exuberant in its creation.

Also read: WHICH IS SOFTER CASHMERE OR PASHMINA?

Revival by the authentic Hands

Pashmina.com with the support and ethics of artisans is exclusively reviving the Craft of Pashmina. The craft is ingenious because of the skilled artisans who work upon every single piece of Pashmina with diligence. Furthermore, Pashmina is the finest and high-quality craft that is to be revived with its most opulence and premium quality. Pashmina.com is working their days and nights for the creation of premium quality Pashmina with the most opulent Handcrafts over its presence. Furthermore, the versatile nature of artisans, as well as Pashmina, is the exquisite quality of nature dwelling in these. Reviving and preserving every aspect of nature with the beautiful craft of pashmina is the basic and utmost virtue of our platform.

Also read: CRAFTING OF AN AKSI PASHMINA SHAWL

The ice desert of the world “ Ladakh” houses a rare goat, which produces Cashmere - one of the finest hairs in the world. The best of its kind, the hair is used in making high fashion apparel and wraps. 

Every year, when unforgiving winds and chill surround the areas around the Himalayas, it is the thick and warm coats of the animals which protect them, in fact, help them survive. Goats, antelope, yaks, sheep, and more animals grow fine fibers over their bodies, which help them fight the minus 40 degrees Celsius temperature around. But the hair doesn't last long, as Spring is the molting season, which causes several changes in the body of the animals, and the hair falls. 

It has been centuries since this hair has been combed off the bodies of these animals and used for human consumption. The animals are all domesticated, and hence it becomes easy for the herders to acquire their wool without any force. It is just the Tibetan antelope and Vicuna which have not been able to get domesticated till now. 

What is Cashmere?

Among the warm body coats of all the animals that roam around the Himalayas, it is the goats whose hair is the most precious and prized. Goats grow Cashmere, and this helps them survive the rigid conditions around them. Among all the Cashmere producing goats, the Changthangi goat of Ladakh is believed to produce the best quality. This is the one that is used in the world-famous Pashmina shawls of Kashmir. 

Cashmere comes from the body of the Capra Hircus goat, found in the region of Changthang-Ladakh. Changthang is Tibet’s large northern plateau which extends from the Chinese province 1600 km into the southeast corner of Ladakh. The goat is, hence, called Changthangi goat locally. Around the world, it is known as the Cashmere goat for its production of the world's finest wool. The best quality comes from this Ladakhi goat, as it is the finest, warmest, and softest owing to the conditions around the region. 

Procuring wool from the goats

The goats are domestic animals, and hence do not need force to get their fine body hair. As soon as the Spring season arrives, moulting takes place, and the goats lose some of their body hair naturally. The Peak summer season makes goats fairly uncomfortable, and hence herders comb their bodies gently. This rids them of the burden, and they roam free around. The wool is collected and packed in small packets. 

The collected wool is sent to Kashmir for processing, where artisans with decades-old expertise and skill await. 

Processing the wool

Cashmere is processed in Kashmir, which starts with cleaning the fibre acquired from the goat. The process is manual and hence tedious. The fibre has to be picked one by one and cleaned thoroughly. Post cleaning, the fibre is sent for spinning, which is done over a wooden spinning wheel by women. Handspun fibre is just 12 to 16 microns in thickness, which is about one-fourth of human hair. Spinning transforms piles of thin short hair into long threads. These are so fine that at times they aren't visible to the eye if lying on the floor. 

Post-spinning, Cashmere threads go for weaving. The weaving process starts with stretching the spun thread. Then it is mounted on a wooden handloom, which is indigenous to the Kashmir valley. The handloom requires 2 or 3 men to spend the entire day on it, weaving the fibre inch by inch. After 3 to 4 days, fibre turns into the fabric. It can be a large wrap, a shawl, a scarf, or plain fabric which can be later used to make apparel or accessories. This ends the processing of Cashmere. 

At times, Cashmere fabric needs embellishments. This is done post-weaving. Embroidery, printing, patterning, lacing, or any other adorning of the fabric is done by specialist artisans who master these art forms. 

Is Cashmere the best?

As soon as winter starts, women and men alike, begin to look for warmer clothes and wraps. In such situations, it is either wool or Cashmere that women prefer to buy. Both have their own pros and cons, and it entirely depends on the user’s preference, whether he buys cashmere or merino wool clothing. 

While merino wool is thicker and a bit heavier than Cashmere ones, the latter provides 8 times more warmth in the lightest of weight. A large cashmere shawl is just 400 to 450 grams in weight but provides immense warmth in the chilly winters. On the other hand, merino wool garments and wraps are sturdy, and not delicate. They bear all the wear and tear of winter and are even easy to wash, dry, or store. On the contrary, Cashmere needs careful handling, washing, storage, and use. 

Also read: DO VEGANS WEAR CASHMERE SCARF?

Is Cashmere high quality?

Cashmere is considered the best quality wool, because of the less micron count of its fibre (12 to 16 microns only). It is warm, lightweight, and graceful to wear. Cashmere too has a number of varieties depending upon which Capra Hircus goat it is acquired from. If your Cashmere wrap has been made from the fine wool of Ladakhi Capra Hircus, then you are wearing the best quality Cashmere sweater. Other than this, China, Mongolia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan too produce Cashmere garments that are not of such a superior quality. They have a higher micron count, which makes the final product thicker than the Ladakhi Cashmere product. Ladakhi Cashmere is used for making Kashmiri Pashmina shawls, which are world-renowned for their warmth, lightweight, and fine texture. They are easy to style and look exceptionally elegant when worn in winter or fall. 

If you are planning to invest in Cashmere, make sure that you shop from authentic sellers. It is just a pure piece that gives all the benefits of Cashmere. If you, mistakenly, buy a wrap that is mixed with nylon or silk, it won't provide enough warmth to you. It will also last for less time. Pure Cashmere wraps, scarves, and apparel last for a lifetime. 

Also read: WHY DO PEOPLE WEAR PASHMINA TO FESTIVALS?

In the world of fashion, the masterpieces of Pashmina Art festoon a glamour of luxury in every style. In the array of designs in Pashmina Art, the Aksi Pashmina is the magnificent twirl of Pashmina Art. Aksi Pashmina from the word, Aks meaning "reflection" or "side" is the type of designing the finest Cashmere. Belonging to the realm of Kashmir Valley, the heritage performs an orchestra in the darling design of Aksi Pashmina. It is extensive crafting that often takes a good span of a year to bloom into luxury. Before designing, there are manor steps in the crafting of the finest Cashmere. Defining each in the presence of Kashmir's sight.

Procuring the Finest Cashmere

Cashmere is obtained from numerous breeds of Goats from around the world. It confers mostly to the countries like Mongolia, Iran, Tibet, Nepal, etc. It is the fine wool taken from the undercoat of Goats of distinct breeds. Cashmere, from the undercoat of the Changra breed of Goats in the Ladakh region of India, is the finest. The goats of the rare fine wool are quite brilliant in shedding their wool in the times of summer. These Changra goats are found at the feet of Changthanghi mountain of Ladakh. The area is highly cold in winters due to which the goats cover up their bodies with fine pelage. Therefore, Cashmere wool helps them to sustain their lives in harsh winters. When seasons move ahead, the harshness turns into the sunshine of summer. The goats shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees.

Although, the herders of the changra breed from the Changpa breed manually pluck out or comb the Cashmere wool diligently. Thus, the fleece obtained is pure. Furthermore, the fleece grows toward the steps ahead for the curation of high-quality Pashmina.

The wool captures the glaze of yarn through the process of spinning. Mostly, done by the womenfolk of the families. The highly skilled women spin the yarn on the yinder, a wheel. Therefore, the finest yarn is diligently picked and moved forward for the process of manual weaving. The weaving commences as soon as the glorified yarn comes to the handloom. The artisans of vivid skill weave meticulously. Thus, the Pashmina Shawl of elegance comes into graceful existence.

Aksi Pashmina design

From Cashmere wool to its creative craft called Pashmina, the journey is meticulous. Several designs confer its journey of glory. Hence, there are explicit Pashmina Shawls in the design of Aksi Pashmina. The unique weave caters to the bloomed intricacy distinctly. The luxurious appearance of the Aksi Pashmina Shawl confers the beauty of hand-weave on the handloom of the Kashmir Valley. Woven with two different colours from either side of one single shawl with harmony on either side. The glorious appearance comes into fashion. Moreover, the authentic Aksi Pashmina Shawl is a versatile accessory in the world of fashion.

Also read: IS PASHMINA EXPENSIVE?

Crafting an Aksi Pashmina Shawl

When the finest Cashmere reaches the process of weaving, the artisans swear on the handlooms. Therefore, start the alluring craft of Aksi Pashmina. The Spun fibres of Cashmere are whirled on the Thonchurr by the process of Pranch. Afterwards, the Naqoosh for embroidery is cast very precisely and the weaving begins. The weaving of Aksi Pashmina Shawl is not basic. It is an extensive and diligent process.

The special quality of an Aksi Pashmina Shawl is that the design starts in the process of weaving. The designs are crafted by splitting the warp threads into two while weaving on the handloom. The other side of the Pashmina shawl is either left plain or embroidered with another design. The embroidery is profuse on either side with the luxury of intricacy. The Aksi Pashmina Shawls can be worn over any of the sides. Both the faces prove the word of luxury of Pashmina Art.

Also, the name Aksi comes from the word, Aks meaning "reflection or side". Therefore, the design is very intricate and needs a quality artisan to work on. In addition, in the pattern, the design of one face is reflected on the other face of the Pashmina Shawl in distinct colour used as the weft while weaving. The process requires the utmost diligence and precision as the embroidery done on each face reflects on the other beautifully. It is the magic of the hands of artisans who very precisely play around with the warps and wefts. Thus, crafting the versatile form of Pashmina Art.

While crafting an Aksi Pashmina Shawl, the artisans hum the poem of nature,

Call upon your presence, Oh Lord of nature
We call upon you with the songs of our handlooms
Verily, you are in the rhymes of our handloom
We cherish an Aksi Pashmina,
that you blessed us with the forte
We cherish our Kashmir
that you blessed us with its love
Oh Lord of nature,
You have visited us in the form of an Aksi Pashmina
Both of your Aks (presence) are infinite 
Verily, we rejoice! 

Orchestra of Aksi Pashmina Shawls

We, at pashmina.com, confer with the high-class artisans and craft together the Aksi Pashmina Shawls. It takes several months to craft an Aksi Pashmina Shawl. With patience and precision, artisans believe in the craft of Pashmina. The skill of crafting an Aksi Pashmina Shawl is like a supreme power. Also, the mesmerizing and glorious craft tangles in the dimensions of the various designs. Looking out for serene luxury? This is what the craft of Pashmina quotes.

Also read: CRAFTING OF SHIBORI PASHMINA SHAWL

Galloping the times of craft in the valley of Kashmir, the requisite of serene perception is evident. The craft of Pashmina dwells a sense of tranquility in its creation and being. Therefore, the pure Pashmina lives near the acquaintance of skilled artisans. The valley confers to the heritage of Pashmina as a cultural craft. The Pure Pashmina comes into existence by hard processes and diligence.

Moreover, the integrity and sustenance of Pashmina as a craft resembles the glory of fashion. The world around arouse the luxury on the sight of Pure Pashmina. From the mountains to the rivers, all along the valley of Kashmir, Pure Pashmina breathe its intricacy. Also, the pure Pashmina embraces the admiration through the eyes of glamour. The enchanting of the patterns over the Pashmina releases the authenticity in the air of glory.

Pure Pashmina - From the meadows of Cashmere

Cashmere from the undercoat of different types of exquisite Goat breeds is obtained. Cashmere, procured from the downy and wooly pelage of the different breeds of Goats from around the world especially from Mongolia, China, Iraq, Iran, Nepal is of premium quality. Pashmina Shawls, specially made from the fleece of the Changra breed of goats is the finest. The Cashmere from the feet of Changthangi mountain of the Ladakh region is the finest among all. These are the finest fleece from the rarest breed of Changra belonging to the tribe of Changpa who are the traditional herders of Changra Goats. Therefore, they start their journey in the commencement of the creation of Cashmere.

The Cashmere wool grown on the Changra goats is to combat the harsh winter season. Moreover, to overcome the heat of nature, it naturally sheds off fleece during the molting season. The fleece, combed or plucked out manually as well is fine. Thereby, cultivated from nature to cherish every part of fleece. The premium quality, preserved by plucking out the fleece manually is a divine process. Furthermore, the fleece grows toward the steps ahead for the curation of high-quality Pure Pashmina.

History plays a role in purity

The history dates back to the 15th century in the Kashmir Valley of India. 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. The saint landed its appearance in the Changthang 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. By the beauty of Pashmina wool, suggested making an industry that cultivates the Pashmina wool in desirable styles. Even the name Pashmina, derived from the Persian word, pashm, meaning "the soft gold" is exquisite in being.

The glory of Pure Pashmina

The glory in the creation of Pure Pashmina is its exquisite appearance. From Ladakh to Kashmir, the craft of Pashmina endures the creativity within. An ancient craft which has been perfected over the centuries. After the diligent picking, the process moves forward. Spinning is done by hand on the traditional charkha wheel known as yinder. It is a highly skilled job to spin the fibre in to a glorified fine yarn. Moreover, it is mostly done by the women of Kashmir who have the traditional skill of spinning the incredibly fine yarn which must be done manually. Thus, women play a very important role in spinning the yarn for weaving. It is a highly creative skill which exists only in Kashmir. Thus, creating the Pure Pashmina for the further process.

Pure Pashmina curated by the artisans of the valley is explicit. Therefore, the craft confers to several styles and patterns of the Pashmina world. Into the world of fashion, opulence of Pashmina confers to distinct and elegant styles in the form of Pashmina Shawls. Consequently, there are diverse creations in patterns, prints and embroideries. Thereby, Pure Pashmina caters to men as well as women to adorn the glamorous craft of Pashmina.

Also read: HOW MUCH IS A CASHMERE GOAT WORTH?

Gratification of Pure Pashmina as a craft

We, at Pashmina.com, believe in the dimension of nature where Pashmina cherishes purity. The fine and hand-crafted Pashmina delivers to the creation of authenticity. We support the artisans to sustain their livelihood. In addition, the manual steps in the creation bring upon the Purest Pashmina. We cater to men as well as women to offer the best of fashion to all genders. Thus, preserving the sense of fashionistas intact. Directly from teh valley of Kashmir, we envelope the pure and fine Pashmina masterpieces to deliver to your doorstep. We embrace the skill of artisans and create the most luxurious Pashmina in the sphere of sustainable fashion. Therefore, belonging the heritage to the craft of Pashmina composes a revere of glory in the craft.

Also read: WHY DO PEOPLE WEAR PASHMINA TO FESTIVALS?

Festivals are a beautiful part of our lives. We wait for each festival very eagerly. Festivals are the moments when we are with our loved ones. The moments of enjoyment and gratitude are wrapped as a pashmina in each festival. In the moving world of chaos, a stop for the exquisite beauty remains in the sky for a time where merriness meets the memories spent. Relish the certainties, in a place where all our beloveds believe the worth of their presence. Expressing gratitude, with the fervor of words is the most requisite of lives. Likewise, Pashmina Shawl, in this world of chaos is the symbol of authenticity and love. Having a belonging that is well off, genuine, and closest to nature is a delicacy in the times of festivals. This is the time when we wear the luxury around and spend our moments with our loved ones.

Human creatures are by default serene joy lovers because they are part of jubilant memories. In the season of festivals, being grateful to our loved ones is the best worship of souls. Presenting ourselves with the Pashmina is also an exquisite moment. Illuminating love in every direction around with exquisite designed Pashmina is a must in festive seasons.

Our Pashmina Accessories come to you through the path of luxury

1. Procuring the finest Cashmere

Cashmere is obtained from numerous breeds of Goats from around the world. Cashmere confers mostly to the countries like Mongolia, Iran, Tibet, Nepal, etc. It is the fine wool taken from the undercoat of Goats of distinct breeds. Cashmere, from the undercoat of the Changra breed of Goats in the Ladakh region of India, is the finest. The goats of the rare fine wool are quite brilliant in shedding their wool in the times of summer. These Changra goats are found at the feet of Changthanghi mountain of Ladakh. The area is highly cold in winters due to which the goats cover up their bodies with fine pelage. Therefore, Cashmere wool helps them to sustain their lives in harsh winters. When seasons move ahead, the harshness turns into the sunshine of summer. The goats shed off the wool with the help of coarse rocks and trees.

Although, the herders of the Changra breed from the Changpa breed manually pluck out or comb the Cashmere wool diligently. Thus, the wool obtained is pure. Furthermore, the wool grows toward the steps ahead for the curation of high-quality Pashmina.

2. Spinning and Weaving with the love of artisans

The wool captures the glaze of yarn through the process of spinning. Mostly, done by the womenfolk of the families. The highly skilled women spin the yarn on the yinder, a wheel. Therefore, the finest yarn is diligently picked and moved forward for the process of manual weaving. Weaving is the next step in Pashmina Art. It is the process of crafting the fine yarn into premium Cashmere fabric. The highly skilled artisans work on the handlooms set up in the local workshops/ karkhanas. Also, the handlooms are mostly made of forest wood. The artisans mainly men artisans work meticulously on the fine yarn. By creating magical warps and wefts by using their hands and feet, the fabric comes into existence. The supremely premium fabric is turned to the further steps of designing.

3. Designing of diverse styles

The process of designing commences as soon as the faith of 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. There are three main styles in Pashmina Art;  Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls. It is to be noted that Pashmina Art is the crafting of the finest Ladakhi Cashmere to a diverse range of accessories in distinct designs.

Pashmina serves you as a moment in the memories of festivals

The diverse styles in Pashmina Art and the endless designs make your festivals lively. This is because of the illumination of luxury in each masterpiece. From Solid Pashmina to Kani Pashmina in each style, there is a reflection of the jubilance of artisans' journey of crafting. When you enjoy any festival with the draping of Pashmina Accessories, there is the joy of artisans celebrated in every moment. Pashmina is the requisite of festivals as it is a festival of luxury itself. The opulence and versatility of each Pashmina are up to the mark of beauty.

Moreover, the joy of each festival resonates with the genuine crafting of the finest Cashmere. There is bliss in each warp and weft as it represents sustainable fashion. Also, the reason for wearing Pashmina at festivals is the endless collection of Pashmina Art.

Blooming with the lights of festival,
it reminds us of the time when a herder sings for Changra Goats
It reveals the nature of each moment,
the festivals urge to present the luxury of Pashmina
Celebrating the artisan's smile,
together we all are in the bliss of joy
Now, we can call it a world of togetherness and beauty! 

Also read: WHAT SIZE SHOULD A PASHMINA BE?

Why do people wear Pashmina to festivals?

Wearing Pashmina to festivals can be a wonderful choice for several reasons:

Being Stylish and Elegant

Pashminas are renowned for their opulent and exquisite appearance. It instantly makes any clothing look more stylish and elevates your festival appearance. Pashmina's delicate texture and vibrant colours can improve your overall look and create a statement.

The Most Versatile Accessories

Pashminas are a flexible accessory that may be worn in a number of different ways. It can be worn around your neck as a scarf or wrapped over your shoulders as a shawl. It can be worn as a shirt, belt, or headscarf. Due to its adaptability, you can experiment with various appearances and adjust to shifting weather circumstances while attending the festival.

Enjoy Superior Warmth and Comfort

Festivals frequently take place outdoors or in the winter. The fine fibres of Himalayan mountain goats which are used to make Pashmina shawls or scarves provide remarkable insulation and warmth. Pashmina keeps you warm and cosy so you can take in the festival atmosphere even in chilly evenings or outdoor settings.

Protection from the chilly winds

A Pashmina shawl or scarf can protect you from the sun, wind, and light rain that are frequent during outdoor festivals. Without sacrificing style, it offers a thin layer of protection. The breathable nature of Pashmina's natural fibres keeps you from overheating and ensures your comfort during the festivities.

Your connection with Culture

Pashmina is handwoven by the most expert weavers in the Kashmir, where it has its origins. When you wear a Pashmina shawl or scarf to a festival, you are honouring and bringing to attention this timeless artistic creation. It serves as a lovely reminder of the glorious cultural past that underpins this royal art form

Practical Use and Convenience

Attending festivals frequently means spending a lot of time walking, standing, and moving. Pashmina is a little and handy accessory to carry because it can easily folded or coiled up into a small handbag. When not in use, it is simple to sling over your shoulders or tie around your backpack or handbag so that you always have it closer at hand.

Unique and Timelessly Beautiful

Pashmina shawls or scarves are remarkable accessories because of their intricate designs, exquisite texture, and eye-catching colours. When you wear a Pashmina shawl to a festival, you give your outfit a distinctive touch and catch attention of the onlookers with its grace and beauty. It can become a topic of new conversations and a means of expressing your individual taste.

Dainty Collection of Pashmina

The luxurious grandeur of the Pashmina accessories is miraculously one of the best versions of presents to pour love over your people at festivals. Here at your creative stop, we let our Cashmere Wraps, Cashmere Scarves, and Pashmina Shawls with handcrafted Pashmina belong to your presence at any festival. Pashmina.com is a place where all the genuine love poured over the creation of Pashmina Styles. Thus, the work and determination of artisans of the Kashmir Valley bring joy to the making. We wish the hard work of artisans wraps you a Pashmina as gratitude towards nature.

Also read: CRAFTING OF SHIBORI PASHMINA SHAWL

The definition of beauty is enthralled in the nature of fashion. Towards the rays of the sun in Kashmir Valley, the artisans speak of the Pashmina Art in a way of gratitude. Pashmina is the finest of crafts that have been worked upon by the most skilled Artisans. Moreover, by these exquisitely skilled hands of artisans of the valley of Kashmir, the intricacy in the handworks is attained. Embroidered Pashmina is the eldest Craft of the valley of Kashmir. Moreover, the craft has its heritage in the air and at every corner of the valley. Kashmir has been the sole region where the craft of embroidered Pashmina is excelled to its height from the 16th century. Moreover, Pashmina Craft has been cherished in the valley for ages. With the growing eras, the craft gleamed in many forms and diverse styles.

Procurement of Ladakhi Cashmere

The Changhthanghi mountains of the Ladakh region are at high altitudes. Therefore, the winter in the region is more than -20°C. The habitat is harsh in winter. A rare breed of goat dwells at the feet of the Changhthanghi Mountain. The breed is called the Changra or Changhthanghi breed. The goats are known as Changra Goats of Cashmere goats. These goats are raised by the local tribe called the Changpa tribe. The herders herd the goats mainly for the collection of thick wool. The thick wool they develop on their bodies in cold winters to combat the chill of the season. Eventually, in summers, they shed the wool off against rocks and trees to feel the air of summer. Also, the wool is combed out by the herders by hand. This wool is called Cashmere wool. It is the finest Cashmere in the world.

Spinning and Weaving in Kashmir

The tufts of Cashmere wool leave the Ladakh region to reach the valley of Kashmir. The tufts are packed in small packets. The art of Pashmina caters to these tufts of Cashmere wool. Therefore, the Cashmere wool is cleaned, soaked, and dried in the sunlight to get the dirt and grime of any sort apart. Afterward, the Cashmere wool is taken to the households where women folk spin the Cashmere wool into fine yarn. The spinning process is done on a wheel of wool called yinder in the local language. The women spun the Cashmere wool diligently to get the finest Cashmere yarn. The yarn is collected around the spindles for further processes.

Further, the Cashmere yarn is taken to the local karkhanas/workshops where several handlooms are fixed. These handlooms are made of forest wood. The highly skilled artisans work upon the handlooms using their hands and feet in coordination with the process. The process of weaving is to use Cashmere yarn to create warps and wefts. Thus, producing a whole fine Cashmere fabric. The Cashmere produced is given the required dimensions. Thus, crafting the Pashmina shawl.

Shibori Style in Pashmina Art

Pashmina shawls give rise to several other styles by designing the intricacies unto themselves. The pigmenting of these takes place in the sphere of the local dyer called Rangur. The exquisite colours are dodged with authenticity in the Pashmina Shawls to scatter an aura of opulence in every direction. Shibori's technique of designing came into play after perfecting the Pashmina Shawl on a handloom.

Shibori is a Japanese manual resist dyeing technique that produces scattered patterns on a Pashmina Shawl. The technique produces numerous different patterns on the Pashmina Shawl in diverse colours. The process of the Shibori designing technique has steps to create the beautiful array of patterns on the Pashmina Shawl. Firstly, the Pashmina Shawl is folded or tied with wooden blocks or clips in a pattern that the design prescribed. Depending on the resist-dyeing technique chosen, there is the use of rubber bands, clips, clamps, or wooden blocks. Afterward, the Pashmina Shawl is pinched and bound off in different ways to craft the exquisite prints of Shibori. After the binding of the Pashmina Shawl, it is submerged in the dye bath. The dyes used are skin friendly as well as eco-friendly.

In Shibori designing, there are several ways of tying the Pashmina Shawl to get the required patterned print. The patterns include a cloud or floret pattern, a striated pattern, and geometric shapes like triangles and squares. After the Pashmina Shawl has been dyed, it is left to dry in the natural sunshine before untying the knots. Afterward, the Shibori Pashmina Shawls are permed on a roller iron and packed in for our warehouse.

Also read: IS CASHMERE THE SAME AS PASHMINA?

A Call from the history of Pashmina Art

The story of the finest Cashmere dates back to the 13th century. A sage from the Middle East, Mir Syed Ali Shah Hamdani started his journey with 700 craftsmen towards Kashmir. On his journey to Kashmir, he encountered the rare goats of Ladakh. He was enthralled by the fine wool on their bodies. He combed some out of them and made socks. The fine socks were warm and Pure. He gifted them to the ruler of Kashmir, Zain-ul-Abideen. In addition, he suggested making a local industry to curate the fine wool. His 700 craftsmen taught the people of Kashmir several skills. The skills proved to be the main requisite for curating the finest Cashmere. Thus, the art of Pashmina came into existence. The high skill prevails in the valley till now. It has been incorporated into the heritage of Kashmir Valley. 

Endless collection of Pashmina Art

We, at pashmina.com, confer on the exquisite crafting of the finest Cashmere. It is the platform where Pashmina is handcrafted proving the high quality to be the main objective. Moreover, working day and night to preserve nature, the precursor of the Pashmina by welcoming and encouraging fashion that is sustainable. Artisans in the sphere of Pashmina.com have managed to look upon the heritage more efficiently. thus, preserving the artisans as well as reviving the Pashmina Craft.

Also read: IS PASHMINA EXPENSIVE?

The Changthangi goat is a unique goat species that is found in low-temperature areas. In the region of Jammu and Kashmir, it is found in Ladakh. Other names used for this rare species of goat are Pashmina goat or Cashmere goat. This goat is mostly known for its fine wool production although it can be utilized for meat or milk. The world-famous Pashmina shawls of Kashmir are made from the wool of this goat. A fine, smooth and exceptionally warm fleece grows on their underbelly, which is processed to make luxury Pashmina shawls. The thickness of this wool is just 12 to 15 microns, making products made from it lightweight and easy to carry.

Does Pashmina Goat give Milk?

Even Though the Changthangi goats are the most famous for their Cashmere wool production, they do produce milk. But the quantity is so low that it is not enough for even their own herders. The goats only produce milk during the lactation period and can produce just one offspring at a time. 

Nevertheless, this does not stop the goat from being one of the most precious animals, and its Cashmere wool production makes it world famous. 

How much does the Pashmina goat weigh?

A large section of the admirers of Pashmina ask questions about the weight of a Pashmina goat. They do so as to know everything about the luxury pieces they wear. 

As far as the weight of a Pashmina goat is concerned, there is a minor difference in the weights of male and female goats. The buck (a male goat) weighs around 31 kg and the doe weighs around 25 kg. The male always looks smaller than the female one, but the weight of the female does vary when it is carrying an offspring (during pregnancy)

Size of a Pashmina Goat

Pashmina goats aren't too large, nor too small. These are medium-sized animals, sturdy, cautious, and beautiful. The buck is usually smaller than the doe, yet weighs more than it. There is a minor difference in the sizes of buck and doe, but the medium size of both makes them easy to handle and take care of. 

Also read: THE TRAIL OF INDIA’S CASHMERE GOAT MEN

Some interesting facts about the Changthangi or Cashmere goat

• Changthangi goats are mainly reared for their Cashmere wool. Hence these are good from a business point of view. They produce 150 grams of wool per year on average. This wool is processed to make the highly precious and expensive Pashmina shawls. 
• The goats give a decent amount of meat. The meat can also be used for selling purposes, but on a smaller level. 
• Changthangi goats are white, black, ash, and brown in colour. For this reason, Pashmina shawls are found in these four colours naturally. But they can be dyed in any colour or shade later.
• Pashmina goats are strong, hardy, and active. These are docile and lazy. 
• Pashmina goats are raised in an open grazing system. This is because they have the strength and temperament to survive in the coldest of temperatures and the hardest of conditions. 
• The acquisition of Cashmere wool every year keeps the goat well maintained and well groomed. Hence the goats look attractive all year round.
• The goats survive in temperatures below - 40 degrees C. This makes them adapt to any kind of harsh condition. The credit for this survival and endurance goes to the growth of Cashmere, the fine yet immensely warm fleece growing as an undercoat on their bodies. 

How much is a cashmere goat worth?

Knowing the uniqueness and peculiarity of a Pashmina goat, with the addition of it bearing the world’s most expensive wool type, the goat is pretty expensive. The male Changthangi goat may range from 350 to 375 rupees per kg, and the female one ranges from 280 to 320 rupees per kg. This makes the average goat worth about Rs 10000 - Rs 12000. 

Overall the goat is considered one of the most expensive animals in the world. The price is high due to its possession of the world’s most expensive wool type - Cashmere. 

Cashmere is one of the most sought-after wool types in the world. It is 8 times warmer than sheep wool but much lighter than the same. A large Cashmere wrap of dimension 200*100 cms weighs just less than 500 grams. This makes these wraps super light and luxurious. It is after enduring one of the harshest conditions in the world, that the Pashmina goat grows Cashmere wool as a protective layer. It is also noteworthy that the goats can only grow fine wool in these cruel conditions and not anywhere else. If the same Pashmina goat is carried a few meters away from its own habitat, its wool thickens and does not remain the same superfine. 

Pashmina shawls from Kashmir are crafted out of Ladakhi Cashmere, which produces the finest Cashmere in the world. For this reason, Kashmiri Pashmina shawls have been cherished from time immemorial. 

Also read: IS PASHMINA A WOOL?