The process of printing patterns with engraved wooden blocks is known as block printing. The age-old skill of dyeing and colouring a fabric using wooden blocks has been developed over generations in India, and block prints are a source of pride. It is the oldest, simplest, and slowest of all textile printing techniques. Hand block printing is a time-consuming procedure. It is, however, capable of producing extremely aesthetic effects, some of which are impossible to achieve by other means. Here are a few block printing types and techniques around India.
Kalamkari
Kalamkari is an old art of hand painting that uses natural dyes and is done using a tamarind pen. Kalamkari is made up of two words: kalam, which means pen, and Kari, which denotes workmanship and is taken from a Persian word. The use of exclusively natural colours or vegetable dyes is a distinguishing aspect of Kalamkari art. Kalamkari art and printing are mostly found in Andhra Pradesh, particularly in Kalahasti and Machilipatnam, as well as a few other smaller towns. Singers, poets, and intellectuals used to paint renditions of Hindu mythology stories, which eventually led to the creation of kalamkari prints. Over the centuries, it has been practised by families and generations.
Sanganer
Sanganer is a town situated in Jaipur, Rajasthan. It is quite evident that the Sanganer block printing technique originated from here. This handcraft evolved, including contributions from people who came from neighbouring states such as Gujarat owing to warfare. Sanganeri print features a wide range of designs and patterns, including various flower motifs, the most common: sunflowers, roses, and narcissus. Designs portraying various gods, fruits, and folk settings are also popular, in addition to flowers. The curves and patterns mostly portray Sanganer's cultural flora and wildlife. Sanganeri is lightweight and perfect for the summer heat. Get your hands on Sanganer prints here.
Dabu
Dabu printing is a type of hand block printing that dates back thousands of years. Dabu pattern cloth is known for its unique charm and beauty all over the world. Dabu printing is a mud-resistant hand block printing technique. Dabu print is commonly found on a traditional ethnic dress, but it can also be found on home décor items. It's a mix of talents and motifs. The motifs have a traditional approach to their existence, as Rajasthan is the home of the Dabu printing process. Dabu printing is said to have started in China, and Rajasthan finally became the most prominent centre for it. Although the designs are similar to that of “batik” printing, the procedures are drastically different. Natural dyes and pastes are used in the Dabu print cloth, making it environmentally friendly.
Ajrakh
Natural colours are used to create Ajrak crafts. Vegetable and mineral dyes are used in the entire creation of the items. The main dye is indigo. Ajrak is the term given to a block printed cloth with a deep blood red and indigo blue backdrop, symmetrical designs, and unprinted glittering white motifs scattered. They date back to the ancient Mohenjo-Daro civilisation, and their legacy has been passed down through the generations. The real Ajrak is printed on both sides using a resist printing technique. Hand-carved wooden blocks are used in the printing process. The Ajrak print is used in a grid, and the repeated pattern creates a web-like design or centre jaal. Border decorations are also used in the cloth, in addition to the jaal.
Bagru
Bagru printing is a type of natural colour printing that has been practised for centuries. Bagru printing technique is arduous yet provides wonderful results in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This technique, which dates back over a century, was developed by families and passed down the generations in Rajasthan. The core of the printing process is washing, hard dyeing, drying, and other steps. Blocks are laid on the fabric from left to right and smashed down hard. After that, the fabric is dried. They are then washed, boiled, and rinsed to produce the finished product. Motifs with a specific purpose are transferred to a light-coloured background using wooden blocks in two styles: direct and resist.
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