What is Block Printing – History, Techniques, Benefits & Styles

In block printing, as the name itself suggests, wooden blocks are used to create patterns on the fabric. This is an ancient technique that originated hundreds of years ago and was practised in many cultures across the world.

Even today, block printing remains a popular and valued art form. Continue reading this article, as we have covered what is block printing, its history, benefits, process, types, techniques and more.

History of Block Printing

Block printing is believed to have originated in China, where people used this method to print on both fabric and paper. From there, this printing method spread to other Asian countries like India, Japan, and Indonesia. In India, block printing has been practised for hundreds of years and is still used today to create simple and beautiful handcrafted pieces liked by everyone.

By the 12th century, block printing made its way to Europe, where it was mainly used for printing religious books, texts, and playing cards. During the Renaissance period, people began using block printing on fabrics to decorate them with patterns and designs.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, printing on cotton and silk became very popular across Europe. Today, block printing remains a valued tradition, especially in India. Skilled artisans continue to handprint detailed and colourful patterns on fabrics, keeping this beautiful tradition alive.

Benefits of Block Printing

The benefits of block printing are given below:

• Creates beautiful designs: Block printing allows artisans to create fine and detailed patterns on the fabric, making each piece look artistic and unique.

• Easy to customise: Designs can be changed based on the requirements of the designer or customer. This benefit of block printing makes it useful for both small and bulk orders.

• Environmentally friendly: Block printing mainly uses natural dyes and colours, which makes it safer for the environment compared to some modern printing techniques.

• Handmade touch: Each handblock-printed item has a unique charm and is mostly a true reflection of the skill of the artisans. People love the look and feel of block-printed fabrics.

• Cultural value: Block printing is a traditional printing method that holds a special place in our history, and using this method helps to keep our culture alive.

• Low cost and minimal space needed: Block printing is an affordable process that doesn’t require large machines or big spaces. It can be done in small workshops or even at home.

The Process of Block Printing

Block printing is a traditional method where wooden blocks with carved patterns are used to print designs on fabric. The process begins with skilled artisans carefully carving the desired design into a wooden block. Next, they dip the block into dye or ink and then press it firmly onto the fabric. This printing process is repeated to create beautiful and detailed patterns across the material.

Step 1: Carving the Wooden Block

The process starts by carefully carving the design onto a wooden block. Tools like chisels and hammers are used by the artisans to create the pattern. The design carved on the wooden block could be simple or detailed, like lines, shapes, flowers, vine leaves, etc. The blocks are made using hardwoods such as teak or rosewood, as they are strong enough to handle repeated printing without wearing out.

Step 2: Preparing the Fabric for Printing

Before the printing starts, the fabric is thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any dust or stains. Once the fabric is cleaned, it is laid out flat on a printing table. This table, used for printing, has a soft, padded surface underneath, which helps absorb excess ink and keeps the fabric steady without moving while the printing is done.

Step 3: Applying Ink to the Block

Here, in this step, the ink is rolled onto the block using a rubber roller called a brayer. This tool will help spread the ink evenly across the entire design. Also, in this step, it is important to check that all parts of the pattern are covered with colour. After the ink has been applied, the brayer is cleaned, and the block is ready to be used on the fabric.

Step 4: Printing the Design on Fabric

In this step, the actual printing begins when the artisan gently presses the inked wooden block onto the fabric. They make use of a tool called a baren or squeegee to apply even pressure so that the design transfers well onto the fabric. Once the block is lifted, the pattern appears on the fabric. This step is repeated over and over to create a full design across the material.

Step 5: Drying and Finishing the Printed Fabric

In this last step, after the printing is done, the fabric is left to dry for a few hours. Once it becomes completely dry, the fabric is washed to get rid of any leftover ink or paste. Finally, the fabric is ironed, which will help to lock in the colours and make it smooth and ready to use.

Block Printing Techniques

The following are some of the common block printing techniques:

Direct Printing

Direct printing is the simplest and commonly used block printing technique. In this method, the fabric is first cleaned by bleaching, then dyed, and finally printed using wooden blocks. The carved block is dipped in the colour and pressed straight onto the fabric. This method is used especially for creating repeating designs like lines, shapes, and other patterns.

Resist Printing

In this method of block printing, a special paste made of mud, clay, and natural materials is applied to those parts of the fabric that the dye should not cover. This paste acts as a barrier. After applying the paste, the fabric is dyed in the chosen colour. The dye seeps into the cracks of the paste, creating soft, wavy patterns. Once the fabric dries, the paste is washed off, leaving behind beautiful designs where the colour didn’t reach. After this, block printing is done on the fabric to add more detail.

Discharge Printing

In the discharge block printing technique, the fabric is first dyed with a solid colour. Then, a special chemical (like a mild bleach) is used to remove the dye from certain areas where the design will be placed. This step will help bring back the fabric’s original base colour in those spots. After that, the design is printed onto the lightened areas using carved wooden blocks. Discharge printing works best on natural fabrics such as cotton and linen.

Rogan Printing

Rogan printing is a rare and traditional block printing technique that was once used mainly for royalty. It is a time-consuming process in which the outlines of the design are first created using Rogan. Rogan is a thick paste made by boiling castor oil and mixing it with natural dyes. After the outlines are printed, they are decorated with fine powders of gold or silver to give a rich and shiny look.

Popular Hand Block Printing Styles of India

These are the famous block printing styles:

Sanganeri Printing

Sanganeri is a famous block printing style that began in the town of Sanganer in Rajasthan. Even though Sanganeri and Bagru prints have similar roots, Sanganeri printing has developed its own identity over time, influenced by the elegance and taste of royal courts. This printing features delicate floral patterns in bright colours. It often uses small, finely carved wooden blocks to create detailed designs such as Bel, Buti, More, Keri, and Jaal.

Bagru Printing

Bagru printing originates from the village of Bagru, located near Jaipur in Rajasthan. This technique uses natural dyes and follows two main styles: direct printing and resist printing. The designs made using Bagru prints are outlined in black and feature classic motifs like flowers, leaves, and geometric shapes.

Dabu Printing

Dabu printing is a traditional printing method hailing from Rajasthan that uses a mud resist technique. In this process, a special mud paste is applied to the fabric, and then the fabric is dyed. Once the mud is washed off, those covered areas stay uncoloured and reveal beautiful patterns. Common Dabu designs include floral motifs, geometric patterns, and detailed shapes.

Kalamkari Printing

Kalamkari is one of the ancient forms of hand-painting or block-printing on fabric in India. This printing technique uses natural dyes and often features detailed artwork inspired by Indian mythology, especially scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The popular designs featured in Kalamlari prints include floral patterns, paisleys, and peacocks. Kalamkari printing differs from other techniques because it tells stories through art. The two main styles of Kalamkari are Srikalahasti and Machilipatnam.

Ajrakh Printing

If you are wondering what is Ajrakh print, it is a traditional block printing method originating from the Kutch region in Gujarat. This method involves multiple stages of printing and dyeing, mostly by using natural dyes. The fabric is printed several times with different blocks and colours. Each layer of design must be precisely aligned to ensure that the pattern appears seamless and perfect.

Batik Printing

Batik printing is a mix of wax-resist and block printing techniques. In this method, hot wax is applied to certain parts of the fabric to prevent those areas from absorbing dye. After that, the fabric is block-printed with colour. Once the dyeing is done, the wax is removed, and the design appears where the wax has protected the fabric.

Bagh Printing

Bagh printing is a traditional hand block printing method originating from Bagh village in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district. This style features red and black patterns printed on a white fabric. The designs often include detailed geometric shapes.

Different Hand Block Motifs and Their Meaning

Given below are some of the common motifs used in block printing:

• Floral Designs: One of the key features of Indian block printing is floral patterns, ranging from simple shapes to detailed designs. Some of the common flowers used include lotus, rose, and jasmine, sometimes with and without leaves. These flowers carry deep meanings; for example, the lotus often stands for purity and spiritual awakening.

• Paisley Patterns: The paisley design, also known as “mango,” “ambi,” or “teardrop,” originated in Persia and became very popular in India. In block printing, the paisley pattern symbolises purity and plenty.

• Animals and Birds: Motifs featuring animals and birds can depict the country’s rich wildlife and highlight the deep connection between humans and nature.

• Geometric Patterns: Geometric patterns often create optical effects and can represent the blend of Indian and global cultural influences in block printing.

• Human Figures: These designs can tell stories and show glimpses of social life and traditions, often reflecting local culture and community.

• Borders:Special borders are used to identify the main patterns or to separate different sections of the print. They can also be used to decorate the edges and corners, which offers the fabric a complete and finished look.

Takeaway

Block printing is a traditional way of printing designs on fabric using hand-carved wooden blocks. This method has been practised for centuries and is still loved today for its handmade beauty, cultural value, and artistic patterns.

Each block-printed piece has a story that reflects the skilled craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans. Whether used for clothing or home decor, block printing continues to celebrate the rich heritage of textile art in a simple yet stunning way.

Frequently Asked Questions on What is Block Printing