Block printing refers to the art of using hand-carved wooden blocks to print. On paper or fabric certain styles of block printing can be used to improve the ethnic look of the products. To print stunning designs on fabrics, craftsmen make use of wooden blocks but there are different ways to print using handblock prints. Because of its rich history hand-block printed fabric is among the top fabrics around the globe. And because of its sustainability it is again getting love from all over the world. It has become a fashion statement of many because of its aesthetic and beautiful block print designs as more and more people are buying these fabrics.
However, today we are going to tell you about different kinds of block print fabrics. From Bagru print fabric to Sanganeri print fabric, we have got everything for you. So, without further ado let us have a look at it.
Different Kinds of Block Prints
Ajrak
One of the most famous kinds of printing on blocks is Ajrak. It uses natural colours which are derived from vegetables and are the primary focus of Ajrakh block printing. Indigo and red shades are the background of the printed fabric which gives it a distinctive appearance. Block printing of this type is commonplace across Gujarat, Kutch, Rajasthan as well as Sindh, Pakistan. Dots in two lines are the most frequently observed pattern on Ajrak blocks. Initially the dots were cut by hand, and then brass nails were used. This is an important factor in determining the artisan's degree of proficiency.
Bagru
The "Chippas" of Bagru, India, who have been practising the art of printing cloth for over 100 years practise a form of hand block printing referred to as "Bagru print" with natural colours. Their Bagru prints are well-known all over the world. In contrast to other prints, the Bagru print fabric utilises a unique method of printing. The original printing method uses wooden blocks. The desired pattern is first cut onto wooden blocks then the design is reproduced on the fabric using a block carved in the desired colour.
Akola
The Rajasthani city of Udaipur is a centre for this kind of block printing, as it is famously also known as dabu. Dabu is the "Dabu" art that translates to "to press" as the primary basis of this art form that dates back to the past. Akola block patterns inspired by natural forms and other common products like vegetables, or similar designs.
Bagh
If you're looking to add something a bit ethnic to your wardrobe, to enhance the appeal of your outfits The Bagh block print is a great choice. Bagh Prints are a distinct art form that is created through weaving and hand block printing using geometric and floral patterns, the use of natural colours black and red, making use of the chemical properties of the river and effective color application.
Sanganeri
Sanganer, a village located in the south of Jaipur, Rajasthan, is the place where the hand-block printing technique referred to as "Sanganeri" was born. For this kind of printing, yellow and red are the most predominant colours and nature is usually the source of inspiration for patterns and designs. Additionally, the colours used in Sanganeri print fabric are natural colours. It is without doubt the best print to keep. Since the colour of the dye can fade over time, you may not be able to wash it often enough.
Endnotes
This is your guide to handblock printing and different patterns from different parts of the world. We hope you will find this information useful if you have just started in the world of hand block printing.