The Illustrious Process Behind Hand Block Printing Technique


India is the motherland of many ancient forms of art, culture, civilizations for which it has acclamation throughout the world such as Ayurveda or Indus Valley Civilization to name a few. Block printing is also an ancient Indian form of textile art which has made Indian art form popular throughout the world. 

Hand block printing practice has been extensively practices from centuries in India. This traditional form of fabric printing make use of carved and dyed wooden blocks that are pressed on fabric to create the desired design pattern. A well designed block print fabric looks absolutely amazing. These are typically made in single colour. Although originated in China but India has made this art form popular. 


In present time Bagru in Rajasthan, is the hub of hand block print materials. These motifs are created by craftsmen with the help of natural dyes. The process of creating this mesmerizing piece of art is not that easy.

Let us discuss the process involved in hand block printing

Step 1: Block carving and Dyeing
  • One of the specific cast of people known as Chhipa community in Rajasthan that consist of people who are involved in the block carving, dying and printing process. Block carving is the most initial phase in block printing process. This art form is also an ancestral skills which is passed after generations. The chhipa community member are well equipped with the tools which are used for elaborate carvings on the wood block. 
  • The carving process is an intricate work and needs a significant amount of time and expertise to perform, after-all the block created is the base of the printing process. 
  • After the carving process is done, the newly designed blocks are submerged in mustard oil and let it rest for a week. This process prevents the block from cracking when exposed to dry conditions. Also mini holes are created among the block to make breathable space for wood.


Step 2: Application of colour paste
After the whole process of carving is complete, the colour paste is applied on the block surface. The content of this paste include tree gum, black earth soil and wheat grain powder. The paste is gently applied and then patted on the paste before pressed on the fabric.


Step 3:Fabric treatment
The block print cotton fabric is first washed thoroughly to remove all unwanted starch. Thereafter a soft bleaching method is used to remove any appearance of grey colour. In case of fabric for saree length usually needs dyeing. 

Dyeing process is conducted before the printing is done. For hand block print, the craftsmen lay the fabric on printing table, stretch it and then put pins to make the printing absolutely neat and tidy.

Step 4: Printing
There is a specific technique which are needed to follow for getting desired result. Printing begins from left to the right side. A wooden plank is used to even out the colour on the tray. The block is dipped in dark outline colour and applies to be the fabric. A strong slamming actions is done to achieve beautiful impression.

Step 5: After treatment
Once printing is done, fine saw dust is spread on the print to prevent smudging of prints. The fabric is then left to get dry in sun.

These were some the steps that lead to a completion of hand block printed fabric

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