Block printing is a traditional method of printing patterns on fabric using carved wooden blocks. It is a slow process but can produce highly artistic results. Different regions in Rajasthan, India are known for specific block printing styles that use distinctive techniques, motifs, and natural dyes. However, the craft is facing challenges of low production volumes, preservation of traditional designs, and pollution issues.

1. Ashutosh Vatsa Pankaj Pathak

2. Block printing on textiles is the process of printing patterns on textiles, usually of linen, cotton or silk , by means of incised wooden blocks. It is the earliest, simplest and slowest of all methods of textile printing. Block printing by hand is a slow process. It is, however, capable of yielding highly artistic results, some of which are unobtainable by any other method.

5. SANGANERI PRINT BAGRU PRINT Techniques of Hand Block printing

8. Blocks are made of seasoned teak wood by trained craftsmen. The underside of the block has the design hand carved on it by the block maker. Each block has a wooden handle and two to three cylindrical holes drilled into the block for free air passage and also to allow release of excess printing paste. The new blocks are soaked in oil for 10-15 days to soften the grains in the timber.

14. Coloured pigment is mixed with a thickener or binder. A sheet of polythene is used to keep the pad from drying out. A printing pad made from two layers of muslin and one layer of hessian.

18. Pattern made by hammering metal nails into a block of wood Pattern carved from a block of wood

20. Pattern made with nails Carved blocks

24. Chemical Dyes

27. Vegetable / Natural dyes