Gabrieli: Israel's Handwoven Tallit Dynasty

Israel boasts dozens of handcrafted tallit makers, but only a handful weave their tallits on a hand loom. With sales from Los Angeles to New York, South America to South Africa, Jerusalem to London - and all stops in in the middle of - Gabrieli has taken its place as the world's prominent handwoven tallit maker.

Gabrieli Hand Weaving was founded in 1964 by Malka Gabrieli, who studied at the Bezalel Academy of Arts and originate in Jerusalem. The studio was set up in the artist colony of Old Jaffa and kept growing. Malka died in a traffic urgency in 1982, but the firm stayed in the house and is now run by Aryeh Gabrieli, who continues the tradition with 40 workers on 13 looms.

Tallit

In addition to prayer shawls, the studio also produces handwoven tablecloths, challah covers, matzah covers and shawls.

Giant selection

The weavers produce an gigantic option of designs, from wool tallits in traditional colors - white with black or blue stripes - to cotton and silk tallits in bold colors and patterns, along with purple, teal and multicolor.

The option of fabrics helps buyers agree a handcrafted tallit that feels just right on their shoulders. Some go with wool because of its superior look or because according to halacha it is thought about to favorite fabric. Others prefer the feel of cotton or the fine information and sheen of silk.

Gabrieli tallits are ready in six separate sizes, ranging from 16 x 74 inches to 60 x 80 inches. The most commonly found sizes are 20 x 80 inches and 50 x 80 inches. The smaller size is narrow and is meant to hang down in front, while the larger size is meant to be worn down the back, in accordance with the age-old tradition.

Each handcrafted tallit comes with a matching bag and kippah. Although handwoven tallits often command 0-0, Gabrieli tallit sets are far more affordable, and for those on a tight funds who may not need a complete set, occasionally vendors that sell the tallit separately can be found.

Don't dally

Because of the large selection, no matter where you shop - even the company's galleries in Old Jaffa and uptown Jerusalem - you won't find every tallit in every size, color and fabric ready in stock. So if you have a fixed target date in mind, e.g. A bar mitzvah or a Jewish wedding, be sure to place your order at least a month in advance. After all, weaving by hand takes time - even if you've been doing it, like the Gabrielis, for over four decades.

Gabrieli: Israel's Handwoven Tallit Dynasty