FABRIC GUIDE
FABRIC GUIDE
Let us take you through the fabrics of our Kashmiri Shawl, that is Pashmina, Cashmere & Merino Wool. Wool has been a part of our clothing and lifestyle for millenia. The wool fibre stretches which is a great advantage over all the plant fibres from modal to cotton to bamboo which are made from cellulose which does not stretch. Flexibility in these garments is from the structure of the yarns used in the manufacturing the fabric. This applies especially to wool, which due to its physical properties, has the added benefit of adding stretch to all its forms and blends. Wool is a sustainable fibre as it’s 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable. All things good and cozy.
Pashmina
Pashmina is the finest of the wools. It was first woven in Kashmir, India and some parts of Nepal. The word ‘Pashmina’ denotes the Persian word ‘Pashmineh’ and Pash means wool in Persian. The Iranians, who came to Kashmir, gave the fabric its name ‘Pashmina’. Amidst the cold temperatures of the Himalayan region , these goats develop a unique, incredibly soft inner coat which is six times finer than a human hair. These shawls are hand-spun and woven from the very fine pashmina goat wool. The Pashmina fibre is incredibly thin- measuring a mere 15 microns and below! Check out our beautifully woven Kani Shawls
Cashmere
Cashmere is a term which is more popularly used in the Western world. This wool is derived from the cashmere goats from lower altitudes than the higher altitude pashmina goats. This super delicate fibre has a thickness of 15-20 microns and needs to be very delicately woven. We at Pashmina Stories use the finest quality white cashmere in the 15-20 micron range. These angelic fibres are dyed into the desired colors and weaved into exciting patterns. The softness and comfort of these fabrics is supreme. They offer extreme warmth and can easily be worn against the skin keeping you super cozy and super stylish! Check out our super-soft Cashmere Stoles
Ultra Fine 13.80 micron wool
Our love for this amazing fibre has only grown richer and finer with time. The sheep wool we use in this range has a thickness of 13.80 micron. It’s very similar in its fineness and richness to the Pashmina goat fibre which measures 12-15 micron in thickness.
Despite modern technology, only the most skilled breeders are able achieve this. This ultra luxurious fibre is close in diameter to silk but has much better properties for draping and breathability. Moisture is wicked away from the body to create a luxurious feel and a high degree of comfort. Ultra soft, like Pashmina, these yarns are the gateway to true luxury. These fibres are rare and always will be. Buy our ultra-fine 13.80 micron wool shawls & stoles
Merino Wool
Merino sheep, originally from Spain, were greatly prized for their fine quality of wool. Later the sheep were introduced to Australia. Though these sheep had already developed fibre of fine quality, they were bred by the Australian farmers into authentic Australian Merino with even better wool. Australian Merino wool has over the years played a significant role in international fashion, and the legacy continues. The fine properties of the Australian merino Wool that we use make our products highly durable, soft and cozy. Our fine merino wool Shawls, Scarves and Stoles are unparalleled in their style and craftsmanship.
Merino wool is a natural and renewable fiber, which means that a single sheep is capable of growing 4-5 pounds of wool every year! Also, the techniques, over the years, have progressed to keep the sheep comfortable in exacting environments. Hence, one would be happy to know that these joyful animals hang out in temperatures ranging from 5-95 degrees F!
Merino wool is known for its classic appeal. Today, the top notch fashion designers and wool-growers across the world are working with the leading textile manufacturers to produce fine quality Merino wool, as it has several benefits like:
- Merino Wool helps in regulating one’s body temperature.
- Merino Wool keeps one sweat-free. Its naturally moisture wicking.
- Merino Wool resists body odour & keeps one smelling good.
- Merino Wool is soft on the skin.
- Merino wool is good for the environment.
Wool Rich Fabrics
Wool fibers are often blended with natural fibers like silk, cotton or artificial fibres like nylon etc. An advantage of blended wools is that a wool blended fabric does not get damaged easily. This blending is often done to enhance the designing and craftsmanship of the product and at times to mitigate economies. We at Pashmina Stories believe in using and promoting natural fibres whenever possible. Not only are natural fibres good for the earth, they are also highly durable.