Care Guide

Our shawls are woven and embroidered by hand in Kashmir from natural fibres. Small irregularities in the weave, colour and embroidery are part of the craft, and a shawl that is looked after only grows softer with time.

Dry clean only. Choose a dry cleaner experienced with fine wool and cashmere, and point out any embroidery or zari so it is handled with extra care.

• Do not machine wash, tumble dry or wring your shawl.
• Do not use bleach or household stain removers.
• Clean it only when it needs it; airing it is often enough.

Blot a spill straight away with a clean, dry, white cloth. Never rub, as rubbing pushes the mark into the fibres and can felt the wool. Take the shawl to a dry cleaner as soon as you can.

Hang your shawl in a steamy bathroom, or pass a garment steamer over it from a few centimetres away. If you must iron, use a low wool setting and press through a clean cotton cloth, never directly on embroidery, zari or sequins.

Put on perfume, hairspray and make-up before your shawl, and let them dry. Watch for rings, watch straps, brooches and bag chains that can catch the weave, and give your shawl a day of rest between wears so the fibres recover their shape.

Never cut a pulled thread, as that can start a hole. Ease it gently back into the weave from the reverse with a blunt needle, or send us a photograph and we will advise you.

Store your shawl clean, folded loosely and laid flat, in a breathable cotton or muslin bag, away from sunlight and damp. Avoid plastic, which traps moisture. Refold it along different lines every few weeks so creases do not set.

Moths are drawn to body oils and food marks, so always put a shawl away clean. Tuck cedar blocks or dried lavender into your wardrobe, and air your shawl on a dry, shaded day each season.

Lay acid-free tissue between the folds of embroidered and zari pieces so the threads do not rub or snag. Keep metallic zari away from moisture and perfume, which can dull and tarnish it.

Roll your shawl rather than folding it tightly, wrap it in tissue or cotton, and pack it near the top of your case. Hang it up when you arrive so any creases can fall out.