Hand-block printing is a centuries-old art form that found its highest expression in India. Today, it's an integral part of several regions, each bringing its own interpretation to the craft.
People often ask us "Why are hand-block printed pieces more expensive?" "What makes them special?" "Are they really printed by hand?" If you're wondering the same, here are some interesting facts to know:
1. Requiring extreme care and precision, hand block printing is only done by experienced artisans.
Karigars spend years practising and perfecting this art. Often the skill is passed down as a legacy in families. One karigar might work on the same print for many days and months, his hands getting more attuned to the rhythm of that design.
2. Each piece is printed by hand using multiple wooden blocks carved by expert artisan families.
These are carved, dried, and then dipped in oil for about two weeks. There are three types of blocks used in hand block printing according to the design. Rekh (the outline block), Gad (the filler block) and Datta (relief printing).
Our aasmaani collection is a unique print which has delicate outline motifs in grey. On one side, these are left empty creating a minimal design. And the other side has an aasmaani blue filling in relief, leaving the motifs standing out in white.
3. It takes approximately one day to print 50 to 60 meters of fabric with hand blocks.
As opposed to screen printing which happens at a much faster rate. The process is slow but deliberate. And since it is printed by hand, human error on these prints is not just unavoidable it’s the mark of a genuine hand-block printed piece.
4. The motifs of hand block printing are inspired by local flora, and fauna as well as historic, architectural and cultural influences.
Amongst our prints, you will often find the Cypress tree, a common Mughal-inspired motif - be it in the popping pink of Jugni, or the lighter details of our Cypress dohars. Other motifs to look out for include the traditional Marigold, the ubiquitous Gulmohar, and local Date Palms.
5. Variations and minor errors in design our common
Amongst the well-versed, such little variations in colour and print are what differentiate a genuine product from mass-produced screen printing. Each of these makes the product in your hand unique and worth appreciating for its imperfect beauty – something only found in artisanal textiles.