Hand Block Printing
Fabric block printing originated as early as the 12th century in the Indian subcontinent. This ancient art form has been passed through generations and involves a hand-carved wood block, dipped in natural dyes and stamped onto cotton or silk fabric. The art has gained popularity over the past few decades with a number of renowned designers working with this fabric printing technique. The products have artistic look and feel, as no machine can match the charm of a handmade item.
PROCESS
STEP -1
Block Carving
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The required design is drawn on paper and then transferred to a perfectly smooth block of wood by carving with hand tools. A separate block must be made for each color to be incorporated in the design. After carving they are soaked in mustard oil for up to a week to avoid cracks due to dry condition of the printing process.
STEP-3
Final Wash & Dry
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Once the printing is complete and the color has set, the fabric is thoroughly washed and dried to ensure color fastening and quality control.
STEP -2
Block Printing
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The fabric is washed to remove starchiness and then spread onto thick layers of old fabrics, ready to be printed. After drawing reference lines with chalk, blocks are dipped in natural colors and then pressed firmly & repeatedly over fabric to achieve the desired pattern.