The Kashmir Weaver · FAQ
Questions,
Answered
Everything you need to know about authenticity, sizing, care, shipping, and bespoke commissions.
FAQ
Common Questions
Both come from goats, and the word "cashmere" derives from "Kashmir." True Pashmina uses fibre from the Changthangi goat of Ladakh, measuring 12–16 microns — significantly finer than commercial cashmere (18–22 microns). Pashmina is hand-spun and hand-woven; most cashmere is machine-processed. The result: Pashmina is warmer, softer, lighter, and lasts decades longer.
The only reliable proof is the GI mark — Geographical Indication No. 46, issued by the Government of India after lab testing at PTQCC in Srinagar. The popular "ring test" is a myth — many synthetics pass it. A burn test can confirm natural fibre, but only GI certification confirms it is specifically Changthangi Pashm. Every Kashmir Weaver piece carries this mark.
Over 20 hand processes: the fibre is hand-combed from Changthangi goats in Ladakh, dehaired, hand-spun, hand-dyed, and hand-woven on a wooden Saaz loom. After weaving, the shawl is washed in spring water and struck against river stones for softness. If embroidered, months or years of additional needlework follow. Zero machines at any stage.
Rarity and craft time. Each goat yields only 80–170g of raw fibre per year. A single shawl requires months of hand-processing. Kani weaving takes 12–18 months. Sozni embroidery takes 7–10 years to learn. Fewer than 900 active Kani weavers remain worldwide. You are paying for irreplaceable human skill and centuries of tradition.
Stole: 70×200cm · Shawl: 100×200cm · Large Square: 137×137cm · Oversized Wrap: 100×250–300cm. Custom sizes are available for bespoke orders.
Yes. We ship worldwide — USA, UK, Canada, Europe, UAE, Australia, and more. All shipments are tracked and insured.
Dry clean for best results. If hand washing: use lukewarm water with mild detergent, never wring or twist. Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight. Store folded in breathable fabric with cedar or lavender. Pashmina actually improves with age — it gets softer over decades.
Absolutely. Custom embroidery designs, colour selection, sizing, private labelling, and wedding/event orders are all available. Lead times: plain 4–6 weeks, embroidered 8–16 weeks, Kani up to 6 months.
A handcrafted walnut-wood case lined with silk, containing the shawl, GI certificate of authenticity, artisan story card, and (for corporate orders) custom branding and personalised messaging. It transforms a gift into an experience.
Three ways: browse our latest collection on Instagram (@thekashmirweaver), message us on WhatsApp (+91 979 610 5623), or fill out the inquiry form below. We'll guide you personally through selection, sizing, and customisation.
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