Khampa Shawl (Ladakhi Sheep Wool + Merino Wool)

‘Khampa’ in Ladakhi means home, house. The design is inspired by the minimal and old decorative styles of traditional Ladakhi ‘Rabsal’ – decorative wooden frames for doors and windows. The pattern of repeating squares in alternating colors, bearing similarities to ‘Rabsal’, is also a common feature in Tsugdans – cut pile woolen rugs of Changthang, called ‘Taba Tobe’. 

The motifs are rendered in the extra weft technique, a first-of-its-kind in Ladakh. Further, the design incorporates the traditional black and white warp rib stripes in the borders, inspired by the traditional home furnishing products woven on the backstrap loom in Changthang – called ‘Challi’.

Sheep wool is sourced from the soft down hair of Changluk sheep of Ladakh, India. When blended with Merino wool, the shawl attains a unique textural softness and lightness; till now unseen in homegrown Ladakhi wool textiles.

The yarns are mill-spun and dyed in Azo-free dyes. The shawl is handwoven by women artisans of Ladakh.

Composition: 50% Ladakhi Sheep Wool, 50% Merino Wool

Size: 82 inches by 37 inches

Care and Maintenance: Dry clean only and warm iron

Colors may vary due to difference in lighting conditions indoors and outdoors during photography.