Block printing is a method of printing patterns on textiles or paper using carved wooden blocks. It originated in China over 1500 years ago and has spread to India, Japan, and other parts of Asia. The key steps are carving a design into a block, applying ink to the block, and pressing it onto fabric or paper to transfer the design. Common materials used for blocks include wood, linoleum, and rubber. Traditional block printing techniques from India include direct printing, resist printing, and discharge printing. Popular designs printed using this method include floral patterns, paisleys, and geometrics.