Understanding Pashmina: From Source to Shawl

When it comes to accessories that embody both warmth and elegance, few items rival the luxurious feel of a pashmina shawl. But what exactly is pashmina, and what makes it so special? At The Wool Company, we take pride in offering pashminas that reflect time-honoured craftsmanship, heritage, and the finest cashmere. Let’s explore the journey of a pashmina, from its origins in the Himalayas to its transformation into a luxurious accessory.

The Origins of Pashmina

Pashmina originates from the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, notably from Ladakh and Kashmir. The wool used in pashmina comes from the fine undercoat of the Changthangi (or Pashmina) goats**. These goats live in the extreme conditions of the Himalayas, where winter temperatures can drop as low as -40°C. To endure such harsh weather, they grow a soft, dense undercoat known as **pashm**, which serves as natural insulation.

Each spring, Changthangi goats naturally shed this undercoat as the weather warms. Local herders collect the loose wool by hand, a gentle process that ensures the goats remain unharmed. This ethical and sustainable harvesting method preserves the quality of the wool, and the fibres are then carefully processed to create pashmina shawls known for their lightweight warmth and exquisite softness.

The Art of Crafting a Pashmina Shawl

Transforming raw pashmina wool into a finished shawl is a labour-intensive process involving skilled artisans. The journey begins with cleaning, where impurities are meticulously removed from the fibres to ensure a smooth texture. 

Once cleaned, the pashmina wool is hand-spun into fine threads. This stage is delicate and requires patience and expertise, as the wool is extremely fine, with an average diameter of just **12 to 15 microns**—considerably finer than standard cashmere. These fine threads are then woven by hand, resulting in an exceptionally soft and luxurious fabric that is unique to pashmina shawls.

What Makes Pashmina Unique?

The uniqueness of pashmina lies in the quality of the wool and the traditional craftsmanship that goes into making each shawl. Compared to typical cashmere, pashmina fibres are finer, softer, and warmer  – due to the high altitude the goats live at – making them highly prized. Hand-spinning and hand-weaving processes are often used create a fabric that is delicate yet durable, lightweight, and breathable, providing warmth without bulk and have that all-important hand-crafted look that cannot be replicated by fast-moving spinning or  weaving machines.

The Differences Between Cashmere and Pashmina

While both cashmere and pashmina come from the undercoat of Himalayan goats, they are distinct in quality and refinement. Strictly speaking:

• Cashmere generally refers to wool from various breeds of goats and can be machine-processed.
• Pashmina specifically uses wool from Changthangi goats and requires traditional hand-spinning and weaving due to the delicate nature of its fibres.

Pashmina’s extremely fine fibres (12-15 microns) make it softer and lighter than ‘standard’  cashmere, which typically has a diameter of 15-18 microns. The craftsmanship involved in creating pashmina also distinguishes it as a luxury item, adding to its exclusivity.

Learn more about the rich journey of pashmina from Himalayan goat to luxurious shawl : -

Benefits of Choosing a Pashmina Shawl

Each pashmina in our collection is the result of a blend of centuries-old techniques and meticulous craftsmanship with contemporary techniques, offering numerous benefits:

• Exceptional Warmth: Despite their lightweight feel, pashminas provide incredible warmth. The fibres trap air, creating insulation without adding weight.
• Versatility: Whether draped as a shawl, wrapped as a scarf, or even used as a blanket, pashminas adapt seamlessly to various styles and occasions.
• Timeless Elegance: A pashmina adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Its delicate sheen and soft texture make it a beautiful, enduring piece in any wardrobe.

The Wool Company's Favourite Pashminas

Our collection showcases a range of beautiful pashminas, each hand-crafted with the utmost care and skill. Here are some highlights from The Wool Company’s collection:

• Diaphanous Pashmina Oyster: This elegant neutral shade complements any outfit, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Its sheer texture and soft feel make it perfect for layering.
• Diaphanous Pashmina Rose Gold: Add a touch of glamour with this beautifully soft pashmina in a delicate hue. Ideal for evening wear, it brings a sophisticated shine that is sure to impress.
• Hyacinth Blue Gauzy Pashmina: Bright and cheerful, this pashmina brings a pop of colour to any ensemble. Its lightness makes it an excellent choice for transitional seasons.
• Aqua and Red Hand-Crafted Ikat Pashmina: The Wool Company’s Aqua & Red Handcrafted Pashmina is made from 100% cashmere sourced from the Changthangi goats in Leh, Ladakh, known for its exceptional quality and warmth. This lightweight and luxuriously soft shawl features a classic design with a reversible pattern, hand-woven using the traditional Ikat technique, which is inspired by the vibrant colours of sunset reflections on a lake.
• Luxury Pashmina Shawl Off-White: A classic choice for any occasion, this off-white pashmina is a timeless accessory that can be dressed up or down. Its luxurious feel makes it a delight to wear.

Caring for Your Pashmina

To preserve the softness and quality of your pashmina, gentle care is essential:

• Hand Washing: Use lukewarm water with a mild wool-approved detergent. Soak your pashmina for 5-10 minutes without scrubbing or friction, then rinse with cool water.
• Rinse and Press: Avoid wringing. Instead, gently press out excess water to retain the fibres' structure.
• Dry Flat: Lay your pashmina on a dry towel to air-dry flat. Avoid hanging as this may stretch the fibres, so reshaping gently while drying is best.
• Storage: Store in a breathable cotton bag in a cool, dry place to protect it from dust and moisture.

Make a Statement with Pashminas from The Wool Company

Elevate your style with our exclusive pashmina collection. Each shawl is a masterpiece of traditional craft, blending elegance, comfort, and timeless beauty. Explore The Wool Company’s selection and find the perfect pashmina for your wardrobe, whether you’re looking for a personal indulgence or a meaningful gift.

Our pashminas offer more than warmth—they tell a story of heritage, respect for nature, and skilled artistry. Discover the beauty and luxury of pashmina, a true testament to the art of fine wool.

The Benefits of Choosing Pashmina

Each pashmina in our collection has been hand-loomed and hand-finished in Kathmandu, Nepal. This traditional craftsmanship guarantees not only the quality of the product but also supports the artisans who have been creating these exquisite pieces for generations. We believe every cashmere pashmina should be an investment, offering luxury, comfort, and style for years to come.

Pashmina garments are not just about aesthetics; they come with numerous benefits:

• Practical &  Warm: Despite their lightweight feel, pashminas provide incredible insulation. The downy fibres trap air, making them warm without being bulky.
• Breathability: Pashmina wool is naturally breathable, which means it helps regulate body temperature. You can wear a pashmina comfortably in both cool and warmer climates.
• Versatility: Pashminas can be styled in countless ways, whether you choose to drape them over your shoulders, wrap them around your neck, or even use them as a blanket. Their adaptability makes them an essential accessory for any wardrobe.
• Timeless Elegance: A pashmina adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. Whether worn with casual attire or formal wear, they elevate your style and create a polished look.

Caring for Your Pashmina

To ensure the longevity of your pashmina, proper care is essential. Here are some tips on how to care for your pashmina:

• Gentle Hand Washing: Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent designed for wool. Gently submerge your pashmina and let it soak for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can damage the fibres.
• Rinse Carefully: After soaking, drain the soapy water and rinse your pashmina under cool running water until all soap is removed. Do not wring out the pashmina; instead, press it gently against the basin to remove excess water.
• Dry Flat: Lay your pashmina flat on a clean, dry towel to dry. Avoid hanging it up, as this can stretch the fibres. Once it is mostly dry, reshape it gently and lay it flat to finish drying.
• Storage: Store your pashmina in a cool, dry place, ideally in a breathable cotton bag. Avoid hanging it in a damp area, as this can lead to mildew.

Make a Statement with Pashminas from The Wool Company

Elevate your wardrobe with the stunning collection of pashminas available at The Wool Company. Our range features an extensive selection of colours, styles, and sizes to suit every taste. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or looking for a cosy wrap for everyday wear, we have the perfect pashmina to meet your needs.

Visit us today to browse our beautiful selection of pashminas. Treat yourself or find the perfect gift for a loved one. With our commitment to quality and style, you can shop with confidence, knowing that you are purchasing a truly luxurious item that will stand the test of time.