The art of weaving was introduced in
Jammu and Kashmir during the reign of the Muslim ruler Zain–ul -Abadin (1400-1470 AD). With change of rulers, Kashmiri embroidery developed new styles.
During the Muslim rule, the patterns used in the embroidery made use of only floral and geometric designs. The use of human or animal figures was not permitted under the Muslim rule. But later during the Sikh rule, human figures and hunting scenes were incorporated into the designs. European styles were added by the French trading companies stationed in the region.
Of the various designs introduced during the various periods, floral patterns remain the main theme in Kashmiri embroidery. The colors that are used follow the ‘Sofyana Rang’ principle, which lays stress on the use of pastel shades on fabrics with preferable white shades. Bright shades of red, saffron and indigo-blue are still the dominant colors used.
Most of the fabrics and garments used by the Kashmiri people contain an embroidery work. Cotton and silk threads are the preferred medium for this work. Most of the embroidery is done by men.
