Namda Rugs: The Art of Felted Wool

Namda rugs embody Kashmir’s unique approach to warmth and artistry. Unlike woven carpets, Namdas are made through felting—a technique of beating, pressing, and layering wool into dense, durable mats. Originating in Central Asia and perfected in Kashmir, Namdas offer both function and beauty, especially prized for insulating cold floors in harsh winters.

Once the felted base is prepared, artisans embellish it with colorful chain-stitch embroidery, adding vibrant floral or geometric patterns in contrasting hues. The result is a striking marriage of earthy texture and intricate design that feels at once rustic and elegant.

Namda-making is a community craft, often involving entire families. Traditionally affordable and accessible, Namdas were common in Kashmiri households. Today, however, the craft faces challenges from factory-made rugs and declining artisan numbers. Initiatives to revive Namda production include design innovation, fair-trade marketing, and training new generations in the art.

Buying a Namda isn’t just adding character to your home—it’s preserving a centuries-old technique that embodies sustainable, handmade values. Each rug carries the legacy of Kashmir’s cold mountain culture and the creativity of its people, ensuring that this felted tradition remains alive under modern feet.