Hand-woven Pashminas are known for exquisite craftsmanship; their unique softness, the large amount of work involved in the production, and the scarcity of raw materials all combine to make life difficult. 

Factors Contributing to the Elevated Price of Hand-woven Pashmina

Hand-woven pashmina is expensive

( Source: Angad Creations )

Now, as you know, hand-woven Pashmina is very expensive; let’s list some of the reasons it is expensive:-

  • A Rare Fabric Origin: A large part of the cost comes from scarce raw materials: the undercoat of Changthangi goats living at altitudes in mountainous regions of the Himalayan. Every year, these goats only produce a limited amount of this ultra-fine wool. This coveted material inherently contributes to the high cost.
  • Handweaving by Labour: The labor-intensive process of hand-weaving further adds to the price of Pashmina. Skilled artisans using age-old techniques often weave each thread tightly and completely through a process that takes much time, precision, and experience. The use of minute patterns or designs, however, only expands the length and skill required to produce them, pushing up overall costs.
  • Fine Pashmina Fibres: Pashmina fibers are finer than any other fabric, measuring only 12 to 16 microns thick. This remarkable quality means that the cloth is soft to the touch and light in weight. To achieve these ultra-thin threads from hair requires special and selective treatment that also helps to justify why hand-woven Pashmina is so costly.
  • Ethically Sourced: Hand-woven Pashmina is characterized by ethical sourcing. During molting season, the Changthangi goats are combed by hand. Not only is this a cruelty-free barrel-pick process but it also indicates caring for livestock as part of one’s livelihood. Due to this ethical sourcing, the cost of harvesting the fibers is higher because it takes more time and attention than usual.
  • Demanded Globally: People’s demand for all things luxurious is felt globally. The dearth of Pashmina, the artistry, and the cultural implications of its creation elevate it to such heights of splendidness that it can be expensive.

The cost of hand-woven pashmina reflects its unsurpassed quality, rare origin, ethical production methods, and skillfulness in making each piece. A timeless emblem of grace and style, hand-woven Pashmina is beyond monetary value as it reflects the commitment and ingenuity of those who make this rich fabric live.