Maku Namda

Inspired by the markings found on sheep, goats and rocks during a trek through the Lidder Valley in Kashmir, our handmade wool namdas are also made in Kashmir.

They are created by sandwiching layers of sheep fleece, which are built up, leveled, and sprinkled with water. The sandwiched layers of wool are then rolled repeatedly to compress them together. Finally, the bundle is unrolled and sun dried before washing.

Traditionally, all Kashmiri homes would have a sitting area with Namdas on the floor. Sadly, very few Namda artisans exist today in Kashmir. It has become logistically and economically unviable. The practice is now considered endangered, and the skills which used to be passed on through the generations are becoming lost. We are fortunate to be able to work with one of the last remaining masters. His innovation and willingness to experiment with the tradition he inherited, allows us to collaborate to create unique contemporary pieces that are as striking on a floor, as they are on a wall.

Namdas are practical and utilitarian – they are made of natural wool fibers that are hard wearing and extremely soft underfoot. The insulating properties of wool mean they are actually suitable for warm or cool climates. Considered to be one of the oldest textile forms in the world, wool felting is a craft practice whose fundamental material and process has not needed to be altered for centuries.