Fabric:
Usually made from light woolen fabric, Kullu shawls are available in
diverse designs and colors. The raw materials for making shawls are
easily available in the valley. The variety of wool that is not produced
in the region is imported from the neighboring states and countries.
Various types of wool used for making Kullu shawls are:
- Australian Merino Wool
- Angora Wool
- Pashmina Wool
- Local Sheep Wool
Besides these, a combination of any of the above mentioned wools
can also be used for making shawls in Kullu Valley. The staple yarn used
in Kullu shawl is cotton fiber, which is used as warp. Amongst acrylic
yarns, synthetic wool is used for making patterns.
Design & Pattern:
Kullu shawls are very warm and are available in both bright and soft
color combinations. Besides geometrical designs, floral and animal
designs are also made, which may run all over, on the corners, or on the
borders of the shawl. Each shawl reflects ethnicity and the culture of
Kullu.
The popular patterns available for Kullu shawls include:
- Plain shawl made in single color without any design or pattern.
- Plain shawl with border of a traditional pattern or colored
stripes on four sides.
- Plain with ek phool, that is, traditional pattern on its both
ends.
- Plain with teen phool i.e. three traditional patterns on two
ends.
- Shawl having design all over it.
- Designed shawl with ek phool, i.e. one traditional pattern on
both ends.
- Designed shawl with teen phool, i.e. three traditional patterns
on both ends.
Market of Kullu Shawls:
Kullu shawls are known for their simple and elegant designs throughout
the world. These shawls also occupy an imperative position in the
economy of the valley. Shawls manufactured in Kullu valley are very
popular in Indian as well as in international markets. Exquisite range
of Kullu shawls are exported to various Western countries and serve as
an ultimate fashion accessory.