Khadi is a coarse homespun cotton cloth made in India. It is essentially a hand spun and hand woven cloth. The raw materials used; could include cotton, silk or wool which are spun into threads on a spinning wheel. The fashion circuit has recently witnessed a revival of the Khadi fabric. It is considered to be a versatile fabric as it is cool during summers and warm during winter. However, since it is a coarse form of cotton, it tends to crumple easily. For a more finished look, the fabric is usually starched to impart it a stiffer look.
Shawls made from khadi are fast becoming popular worldwide. These shawls are typically produced in India. Its most appealing feature remains its traditional patterns and designs, versatility and comfort. Customers are exposed to a wide variety of colors, designs and patterns to choose from. The other positive attributes of this fabric are that it is color fast, pre-shrunk and the shawls are made from superior quality hand made material. Moreover, Khadi shawls are just appropriate for cold climates.
In the past, khadi shawls were made from hand spun and hand woven "khaddar" of different weaves and textures in Punjab. The khaddar was then dyed in different colors and transformed into beautiful, multicolored shawls using the traditional phulkari embroidery. Right from the stage of yarn to the final khadi fabric, khadi fabric is completely hand made. Khadi shawls carry them a rich traditional appeal and are especially popular for their decorative properties. A great deal of craftsmanship is involved in these finely hand crafted shawls.
The contemporary designs and patterns in khadi shawls include block prints usually accompanied by a matching zari border. Other embellishments include mirror work, fancy appliqués and intricate to moderate embroidery for a more fancy appeal. Traditional Phulkari embroidery from Punjab also imparts a traditional touch to Khadi shawls. Khadi shawls with nakshi kantha are also very popular in the Western countries which are available in vibrant colors and fancy patterns and designs. Khadi shawls are largely produced in the Indian states of Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal and Delhi. A very lucrative international market is developing for these shawls and due to a growing demand of this product; these are largely exported to many countries.