Real pashmina is unlike any other fabric in the world, and pashmina shawls exude a unique kind of charm. You may know of pashmina shawls as an item of luxury, but you may not know ‘what is pashmina’. Most people confuse pashmina and cashmere when in reality the origins and fabric specs differ a lot.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything about pashmina, from its meaning and historical value, it transforms from raw wool to beautiful shawls.
What Is Pashmina: A Definitive Guide:
The meaning of pashmina can have caused quite a debate. The Western world simply refers to cashmere and cashmere like shawls as ‘pashmina’. If you come to the eastern side of the globe, which is where pashmina originates, you will know that it is a type of fabric.
As for those who believe that the answer to ‘what is pashmina’ is cashmere, know that these are different. Both are same when it comes to texture and warmth, the distinction lies in the fiber quality. Real fabric is far softer, with finer threads than cashmere.
True pashmina lovers appreciate the stoles, scarves, and shawls with 100% of this fabric for distinct feel. The artisans, primarily those who belong the areas same as where the fabric comes from, have superb talent. They can create intricate designs and patterns, most of which feature classic motifs that represent the culture of their region.
They are known for their intricate designs and patterns, which are often inspired by traditional motifs and patterns. These shawls are perfect who like to add culture to fashion. Plus, pashmina shawls are ideal for parties and weddings during cold weather.
Diving Into Pashmina Origins:
Pashmina wool comes from the soft undercoat of the Pashmina goat. The animal is mainly found in are in the high altitude areas of the Himalayas, specifically in Pakistan, Nepal, and India. It is also vital to note here that what makes distinct from cashmere is that the latter is wool taken from the undercoat of the cashmere goat, which is native to north of China and Mongolia.
A Brief History Lesson
To learn what is pashmina is truly interesting, but its history is even finer. Once upon a time, these shawls were THE choice of royalty. The unique artistry in these shawls caught the attention of people from the west. To this date, their experts have tried but failed to replicated the craft of similar to South Asian artisans.
Pashmina has a deep history in the Mughal era, the shawls passed down with priceless value. Historically, is has been favored by Maharajas, British and French nobility, and Mughal emperors.
Today, it remains a vital element of Middle Eastern clothing, a sign of grace, heritage, and identity. Even now, families pass pashmina shawls through generations, as the craft behind the fabric enchants people anywhere in the world.
Producing and Dyeing Pashmina Wool:
So you think you know everything about pashmina? What you may not know is that behind the charming craft if a LOT of work. Turning pashmina from wool to shawl is a length process. 100% handmade pashmina shawls are in a league of their own.
Here is how the first stages of pashmina making go:
- The wool is taken from the undercoat of the goat. It usually happens during the spring season, when the animal shed their thick coats after winter.
- Locals then sort the wool and clean it to remove dirt. The process requires care, or there is damage to the wool which is tough to use.
- Then, the wool goes to the loom, usually a traditional spinning wheel. This is where the magic of wool to yarn happens.
- After yarn production, pashmina enters the dye phase, using either natural or synthetic dye, depending on the color and style they want to achieve.
When it comes to dyeing pashmina, the artists usually apply natural dyes by hand using the tie-dye method. On the other hand, synthetic dyeing involves soaking the yarn in a dye bath and using machines.
Weaving Pashmina Wool into Shawls, Scarves, and Stoles:
The phrase ‘attention to detail’ is truly captured by the process of turning pashmina wool (yarn) into wearable wonders. Weaving the fabric takes a lot of time and effort, and only artists with great skill can complete this feat.
For pashmina shawls (or other items) made by hand, the weaver uses a handloom. They expertly work the yarn through a shuttle to warp threads, all while creating intricate designs. The process of creating a single shawl can take up to a week. The more complex the design, the more time weaving takes. Believe it or not, a beautiful handmade pashmina shawl you see may have taken a month to complete!
Note: There are modern methods today that speed up the time and reduce the effort to create a shawl. However, shawls made with these methods may not comprise the same quality and charm as shawls that pass through a traditional process.
Artisans also embellish pashmina shawls. They can add embroidery, which is most common. Beads and precious stone work is also a part of the process, especially in formal and bridal shawls, or just more deluxe pieces.
Adorning the shawls itself is a tough process too. Done by hand, these add- ons need a skillful hand. The price for such shawls is often steep, but the worth it given that the cost reflects the unique craft that goes onto making the final piece.
What Makes Pashmina So Special?
You may know what is pashmina, but you may wonder what is so unique about it. Why the attention to the fabric around the globe. The fame of the fabric seems to rise every passing year as people become more aware of other cultures.
What makes pashmina truly special is that it is charming just today, but has been for hundreds of years. Kings and queens and other royalty gave pashmina their highest praise for is comfort and beauty. Nobles of past and present pride themselves on one-of-a kind collections of pashmina stoles and shawls.
Simply put, pashmina remains timeless as a symbol of luxury, elegance, and fine taste too! Like passing down jewelry or watches, people pass pashmina shawls to their children and other loved ones.
In south Asia and the Middle East, people keep their pashmina lovingly safe, reserved only for special occasions. When it comes to wearing pashmina, traditional shawls are favorite choice, which feature classic motifs and patterns that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. These shawls are perfect for those who love to infuse a culture into fashion, feeling extra special when they wear these at events like weddings and parties!
How To Tell You Are Buying Real Pashmina:
The process of creating genuine pashmina involves complete handwork, with no machines in the process. It’s a labor-intensive process that takes a lot of time. The more intricate the work and thelonger it takes to complete the shawl, the pricier the final product.
So, price can be one factor that tells you what is pashmina that you are seeing—real or mixed. Of course, while this is one factor, it can be a misleading one as people may sell fake or poo-quality for less. However, what you can know by this aspect is that if you see a too-low price tag, question the authenticity.
Next, take a look as the color tone. A pashmina item will have a even color tone on both front and back. If not 100% real, then the fabric will have obvious tone differences, as the fabric is made with mixed threads.
Additionally, the fibers should measure below 19 micrometers in thickness (that’s very, very thin). A shawl or scarf that features pure pashmina is too soft. It has a lightweight yet at the same time a rich feel to it.
Note: Know that a blend of pashmina, ideally with silk, may result in a more durable piece. Yes, pure pashmina is exquisite, a fabric that features silk thread is stronger and warmer, and may last longer.
Cleaning A Shawl or Other Item Properly:
Do you need to stick to dry cleaning only when cleaning a item? In reality, that is a myth. You can wash your shawl, scarf, or stole yourself, and still keep it safe. Dry cleaning is ideal if you are extra cautious, but washing at home can give you great results too without any effect on fabric integrity.
So, while you learn everything about pashmina, know how to clean it properly. Here is how you can go about it:
- Always make sure to handle your shawls with clean hands and start by rinsing in cold water.
- To wash your shawl, use a gentle detergent like lanolin or baby shampoo, and dissolve it fully.
- Next, immerse your shawl. Let it soak, as you want as little wear and tear as possible.
- Be very, very gentle when you remove dirty marks and stains. No rough moves at all.
- Avoid rubbing the areas that have any embellishments. Let the soaking process do the magic.
Once you are done, rinse your shawl with clean, cold water. Steer clear of fabric softeners, as they have chemicals that can harm the fabric. NEVER bleach unless you want to ruin your precious belonging in one go. Finally, go for specific washing shampoos or other cleaners.
More Tips to Care for Your Shawl:
First things first: use your knowledge about ‘what is pashmina’ and identify the real fabric. Starting with quality and genuine product is how you can find ease in taking care of it down the line. Check the label for the official ‘Pashmina’ tag. You can also check for the official guarantee from the Testing and Quality Certification Centre with the seller. about website
You don’t have to worry too much about your shawl if you are careful about cleaning it. Pashmina not only has amazing visual appeal, softness, and warmth, but is also durable to begin with. Other than proper washing, you can be diligent about drying. Let your shawls air dry, best laying it straight instead of hanging.
Next, proper storage makes all the difference. Try not to keep your pashmina outside when you are not using it. Also, fold and do not hang the shawl. Make sure there is no direct sunlight and minimal humidity.
Hand wash only; no washer or dryers, or else the fibers will fray. For super dirty shawls, go for dry cleaning than cleaning at home. If you need to iron your shawl or scarf, add an extra layer of cloth like muslin between it and the iron to avoid any heat damage.
To Conclude: ‘Royalty’ is Synonymous with ‘Pashmina’:
Pashmina is not only stunning but also a valuable addition to any closet. Your shawl may even hold culture and history. The more intricate the work in your shawl the more care it needs, and the more it is worth it keeping it in a fine condition. It is yours to cherish and adorn on special occasion, and may be an heirloom too?
The beauty of is widely known, but it’s worth goes past just the price tag and its appearance. Some pashminas are also a part of religion, like prayer mats and coverings for religious books.
Whether you invest in a shawl or a scarf, know that it embodies luxury and grace. No matter what kind of piece, take your time when buying one, and have a loving stance toward caring for it. The question ‘what is pashmina’ is asked by many, but only a few make the effort to know the piece before investing in it. It is worth taking the time to learn how to buy pashmina and take care of it, and you will have a piece that will endure beautifully for years to come.