Product story
The maker, materials and process behind the finished object.
Object
This jovial elephant stocking from Indian artisan Rajesh Gehlot will give you something special to celebrate on Christmas morning. Designed from 100% wool, the stocking features an applique elephant on an ivory background. The backside of the stocking is plain and includes a pompom loop for hanging above your fireplace.
Process
First, we procure wool from Bikaner and Jaisalmer. It undergoes an initial cleaning process where burrs and black wool are removed; it is then fed into a 'bilo' machine to separate out dirt and thorns. Next, it passes through an opener machine—a process known locally as *pindai*—followed by a carding machine that forms the wool into rolls. These rolls are then processed in a hardening machine, where they are beaten for two to three minutes while steam is applied to set the material. Subsequently, the material undergoes milling with the addition of soap; it is beaten for two hours until fully prepared. If coloring is required, four sheets are placed together in a large vessel and boiled for 10 minutes, after which they are dried in a hydro-extraction machine. Finally, the material is cut into pieces— either by machine or by hand—according to the required size and sent for stitching.
Origin
HANDICRAFTRAJASTHAN INDIA JAIPUR
Construction reference
