ISHKAR is a social enterprise focusing on preserving heritage craftsmanship and generating economic opportunities in war-torn countries, particularly Afghanistan.

The brand specializes in flatweave kilims and finely hand-knotted carpets woven from raw Ghazni wool spun in the city of Mazar in Afghanistan. Weaving is one of the few livelihoods available to women in Afghanistan today, each one taking 3 to 4 months to produce. ISHKAR is a certified Label STEP Fair Trade Partner, ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for the artisans.

Part of what makes Afghanistan’s kilims so unique is the wool they are made from. Each strand of wool is individually spun by hand, giving the kilims great character. With its unusually long strands Ghazni wool is also famously hardwearing. Afghanistan produces the world’s finest rugs, owing to the exceptional skill of its weavers, and their access to unique natural wool, silk and dyes.