In a world where the word “Pashmina” is everywhere, understanding what makes one truly authentic can feel confusing. Two terms you’ve probably come across are handloomed and powerloomed Pashmina.
At Shaza Life, we believe informed choices lead to conscious living — and that starts with knowing how your Pashmina is made.
Let’s break down the real difference.
Handloomed Pashmina: Woven by Heart, Not by Machine
Handloomed Pashmina is the traditional, artisan-crafted version. Woven on wooden looms by master artisans — often in Kashmir — each piece is a labor of love.
Characteristics:
- Hand-spun and handwoven using traditional looms
- Made from 100% pure Changthangi goat wool
- Subtle irregularities that indicate it’s handmade — and unique
- Softer, more breathable, and warmer due to natural fibers and gentle handling
- Time-consuming: A single shawl can take over 300 hours to complete
Why It Matters:
- Preserves generations of heritage weaving
- Supports local artisans and fair trade practices
- Environmentally friendly – no electricity or industrial processing involved
- Each piece is one of a kind
If your Pashmina passes through a ring and feels like a warm whisper — it’s probably handloomed.
Powerloomed Pashmina: Mechanized & Mass-Produced
Powerloomed Pashmina is produced in factories using automated machines. It’s faster and cheaper, but comes at the cost of authenticity and texture.
Characteristics:
- Often blended with viscose, silk, acrylic, or nylon
- Perfectly uniform weave — no handmade charm or imperfections
- Made in bulk, often outside Kashmir
- Lacks the lightness and warmth of true Pashmina
- Feels heavier or shinier — and usually won’t pass the ring test
Why It’s Different:
- Doesn’t support artisan communities
- Focused on quantity, not quality
- Usually sold under the “Pashmina” label but not actually real Pashmina
Powerloomed shawls may look pretty, but they’re not heirloom-quality. They're fashion — not tradition.
The Bottom Line: Choose with Purpose
Feature - Handloomed Pashmina - Powerloomed "Pashmina"
Source - Himalayan Changthangi wool - Mixed or synthetic fibers
Weaving - By hand (on wooden looms) - By machine (mass-produced)
Texture - Soft, breathable, luxurious - Often stiff or shiny
Sustainability - High – artisan-led - Low – industrial processes
Price - Higher (but worth it) - Cheaper (but less value)
Heritage Value - Deep cultural roots - None
Summarize: Let the Fabric Speak
When you wrap a handloomed Pashmina around you, you’re not just feeling warmth — you’re wearing legacy, story, and care. At Shaza Life, we honor this craft and the artisans who keep it alive.
So next time you shop, ask:
Was it made by hands, or machines?
Because the difference isn’t just in the weave — it’s in the soul.
