What is a Shapan?
Shapan is an ancient garment made from expensive material with a quilted lining. It is usually made from solid, dense, dark fabric and is complemented by embroidery with contrasting threads. According to tradition, shapan was given to respected guests and matchmakers. According to the old custom “Zhety Zargy” (among the Kazakhs), violators of the law were fined with a horse and a shapan.
The shapan is very popular among the peoples of Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan), as well as among the Bashkirs, Chuvash, and some inhabitants of the Caucasus.
How is Shapan Made
The production process is done by hand using the best sewing and fur tanning methods. Experienced craftsmen who specialize in making traditional Kazakh costumes, particularly the “Shapan,” are rare artisans. Shapans are made in the city of Almaty.
- Material Selection: Choose high-quality, dense fabric for the base and fur for the lining (like mink, fox, or raccoon).
- Cutting the Fabric: The fabric is cut according to the design and size of the shapan.
- Quilting the Lining: The fabric is lined with quilted material to add warmth and structure.
- Sewing: Skilled artisans sew the pieces together using traditional techniques.
- Embroidery: Decorative embroidery with contrasting threads is added to the shapan for style.
- Attaching Fur: Fur is carefully sewn onto the edges of the shapan and headgear (malakhai or borik).
- Final Adjustments: The garment is checked for quality and fit before being finished.
- Optional Headgear: A matching headgear (malakhai or borik) is made to complement the shapan.
- Drying and Finishing: The shapan is dried, pressed, and ready for delivery.
How Long Does it Take to Make Shapan?
Making one shapan with a headgear (malakhai or borik) takes from 3 to 10 days. We also maintain a certain stock in our warehouse. If the ready-made item is out of stock, we are always ready to make it to order in the required size.