Hand block printing is a centuries-old art form where skilled artisans use hand-carved wooden blocks to print patterns on fabric. The designs can range from floral motifs to geometric patterns; each print tells its story.
In the heart of Rajasthan, Jaipur has been a hub for this craft, with the small village of Bagru being particularly famous for its unique approach to block printing. Here, artisans continue to pass down techniques from generation to generation, preserving this rich cultural heritage.
Let’s break down the process. Ready? Here we go!
1. The Wooden Blocks – “Chippas” Carve the Magic
Before any printing happens, the stars of the show—the wooden blocks—are carefully carved by artisans known as Chippas. These blocks are usually made from teak wood, and each design is painstakingly etched into the surface by hand.
Every block can take days, or even weeks, to carve, depending on the complexity of the design. Think of these blocks as the “paintbrushes” of the artisans. Once the design is complete, these blocks are soaked in oil for a few days to soften the wood for printing.
2. Preparing the Fabric
The fabric, often made of cotton or silk, is prepared for printing by washing it thoroughly to remove any starch or impurities. In Bagru, the local artisans use natural ingredients like “Harad” (myrobalan) to treat the fabric. This step is crucial as it ensures the dyes adhere properly to the fabric and gives the cloth that soft, breathable feel we all love!
3. Mixing Natural Dyes – Earthy Hues, Jaipur Style
In the tradition of Bagru, natural dyes are the soul of block printing. Artisans in Bagru use organic materials like Indigo for blues, Pomegranate rinds for yellows, and Madder roots for reds. The earthy, muted colours reflect the natural beauty of Rajasthan’s landscape.
Each colour is carefully mixed in large pots, and let me tell you, it's like cooking up a magical potion!
4. The Actual Printing – Stamp, Lift, Repeat!
Now comes the most mesmerizing part. The artisan dips the carved block into the dye, stamps it firmly onto the fabric, and then lifts it quickly. Each block must align perfectly with the last to create a seamless pattern. Sounds easy, right? But it’s a masterful dance of precision and timing!
For more intricate designs, multiple blocks are used—one for each colour. The artisan has to carefully align the blocks to ensure the pattern stays consistent.
5. Drying and Washing – Let the Sun Work Its Magic!
Once the printing is done, the fabric is left to dry under the warm Jaipur sun. After drying, it’s washed in clean water to remove any excess dye, and this process also helps set the colours.
The result? A piece of fabric that’s not just beautiful but carries the essence of Rajasthan—crafted by hand, touched by tradition, and perfect for every season.
Check our hand-block collection here.