Wool Spinning and Knitted Socks of Himachal Pradesh

Hand-knitting is a home based craft practiced across Himachal. Sweaters and other products of wool are knitted all over the State. However what is distinct are the so called Kullu socks. These hand knitted socks are a specialty of women in villages throughout the districts of Kullu and Lahaul and Spiti. Made of natural sheep wool the patterns knitted in are in contrasting bright acrylic yarns. The coloured stripes and geometric patterns used to enhance the natural shade of the wool resemble the border decorations of the Kullu shawl and caps. Using four needles the knitters are skilled at churning out sizes to suit all lengths of feet. Products being made now include gloves, slip-on shoes, caps and mufflers.