Shawl weaving

The art of shawl weaving: a brilliant legacy of Iranian elegance and warmth

Shawl weaving is one of the most valuable handicrafts of Iran, which is rooted in the rich history and culture of this land. Handwoven shawls, in addition to their main function as a warm cover, are considered a symbol of Iranian art, authenticity and identity.

History and geographic distribution

The art of shawl weaving in Iran has a long history and has been popular in many regions, especially in cold and mountainous regions. Each region uses specific and distinctive designs and colors in woven shawls according to the weather conditions, available raw materials and their native culture. Kurdistan, Kerman, Mazandaran and Khorasan are among the regions famous for shawl weaving in Iran.

Production steps of handwoven shawls

Producing a handwoven shawl is a long and delicate process that includes the following steps:

Preparation of wool: Sheep wool is washed and cleaned after picking.Spinning: The cleaned wool is spun and turned into yarn.Dyeing: The spun yarns are dyed with natural or chemical dyes.Weaving: Long threads are stretched on the weaving loom.Weaving: Using a comb and mako, transverse threads are woven on the skeins and the shawl fabric is formed.Dewatering and drying: After the weaving is finished, the shawl is washed and spread out to dry.Shearing and finishing: The extra piles of the shawl are cut and ready-made shawls are used.Various designs and roles in shawl weaving

Shawl weaving designs are very diverse and complex. These designs are often inspired by the nature, architecture and culture of the region. Some of the most common designs are:

Geometric designs: square, rhombus, triangle, cross, etc.Plant designs: flowers, bushes, leaves and treesAnimal designs: birds, fish and other animalsAbstract designs: designs made up of geometric shapes and curved lines.Wide applications of handwoven shawls

Handwoven shawls, due to their beauty and elegance, are used in the production of a wide range of textile products, including:

Clothing: scarf, headscarf, slippersInterior decoration: tablecloth, bedspread, cushionHandicrafts: making ornaments, wallets, etc.