Kashmiri Namdah, also known as Namda, is a unique and age-old craft of creating colorful, hand-felted woolen rugs or carpets. These rugs are renowned for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship. The name “Namdah” is derived from the Persian word “Namad,” which means ‘felt.’ The craft involves using raw sheep’s wool, which is cleaned, dyed, and then compressed into felted sheets.

The Making Process:

1. Shearing and Cleaning: The process begins with shearing the wool from sheep. The wool is then cleaned thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities.
2. Dyeing: Artisans use natural and vibrant dyes to color the wool, creating a wide array of hues. These dyes are often derived from plants, roots, and even saffron, lending the rugs their distinct and mesmerizing color palette.
3. Felted Wool: The dyed wool is then laid out in thin layers and wetted with water. Artisans press and agitate the wool until it binds together and forms a dense, sturdy sheet of felt.
4. Design and Embroidery: The felted wool sheet serves as the canvas for intricate, hand-embroidered designs. These designs often feature motifs inspired by nature, Kashmiri culture, or Persian influences. The intricate embroidery is typically done using colorful threads.
5. Finishing Touches: After the embroidery is complete, the Namdah is left to dry thoroughly. Once dry, it is trimmed to achieve a uniform shape and size.