Rajasthan is known for its rich culture, majestic forts, traditional culture, and vibrant things. Travelers from various countries come in large numbers to experience the history of this land. Handblock printing of Rajasthan is also a great display of it. Having a history of more than 500 years, hand block pricing is still practiced in large numbers. Natural colors are used to print colors on textiles which make them look even more attractive.
The Chippa community of Jaipur first introduced this printing style to the world. Belongs to Bagru town this community now focuses on vegetable dye and mud prints.
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About Handblock Printing
Handblock printing is done using plant-based dyes and then it prints to the textile. Sanganeri prints are the most popular example of this. Communities built their recipes for the plant-based dyes and passed that information to the next generation and this caused the different outcomes of printing in different communities. The output of the color on printing depends on various factors such as the quality of plants, water, skill of the master, and knowledge of printing. As of now, the new hand-blook printing forms are using premixed colors.
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Types of Handblock Printing in Rajasthan
As mentioned earlier each community has its style for handblock printing. Because of this various hand block printing styles are followed in Rajasthan. Here are the 10 most famous handblock printing styles that you can explore.
| Serial No. | Printing Form Name | Uniqueness | Location | Things Made Using Them |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bagru | Natural dyes and motifs inspired by nature | Bagru, Jaipur | Textiles – Bedspreads, sarees, dupattas |
| 2 | Sanganeri | Elaborate floral patterns and bright colors | Sanganer, Jaipur | Textiles – Salwar suits, sarees, bed covers |
| 3 | Dabu | Mud-resist handblock printing | Akola, Rajasthan | Textiles – Kurtas, sarees, scarves |
| 4 | Chhipa | Geometric and floral designs | Jaipur | Textiles – Bedspreads, tablecloths, garments |
| 5 | Bagh | Traditional designs with intricate detailing | Bagh, Madhya Pradesh (influential in Rajasthan) | Textiles – Sarees, turbans, scarves |
| 6 | Barmeri | Vibrant colors and bold geometric patterns | Barmer, Rajasthan | Textiles – Sarees, quilts, dress materials |
| 7 | Anokhi | Contemporary designs with traditional techniques | Jaipur | Textiles – Clothing, home decor |
| 8 | Kalamkari | Hand-painted or block-printed using a pen | Kaladera, Jaipur | Textiles – Sarees, dupattas, wall hangings |
| 9 | Akola | Traditional motifs with a focus on fine detailing | Akola, Rajasthan | Textiles – Sarees, bed covers, dress materials |
| 10 | Indigo Resist | Use of natural indigo dye and resist techniques | Various regions in Rajasthan | Textiles – Clothing, home furnishings |
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Process of Handblock Printing
Like any other process, Handblock printing starts with an idea of design. In the next step, we draw these designs on the paper to make the dye. We meticulously carve these designs (18*25) on the Sheesham wood with our hands. We make a separate dye for each color for seamless printing.
In the printing process, the artisans stamp the black color first to create a design known as “Gud”. After that, they use the next block to outline the design if it has floral or similar prints, which is called “Rekh”. Finally, they fill the block with the colors of the design prepared at the beginning.
Color mix plays a critical role in this as a single negligence can result in the outcome of a completely different color. Mastering the preparation of the color mix and then pouring it onto a wooden block, using a mesh as a spoon to evenly spread the color on the block, makes Handblock printing more effective. After each print, the block needs to be colored again using the color box. This process utilizes AZO free colors, which are eco-friendly.
Every pattern of design will be stamped individually and this takes time and skills. A small mistake can ruin the whole design. Attention to detail and hours of hard work result in a mesmerizing and beautifully hand-block print item.
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Importance of Handblock Printing
- Artisian Communities – Many local communities of Rajasthan are depending the Handblock printing. As it is their profession to earn money they pass this art from one generation to another.
- Economic Contribution – Foreign tourists visiting India often show interest in these prints and purchase them from local manufacturers. It plays a significant role in the handicraft and textile industry of Rajasthan.
- Global Appeal – Globally, people highly seek after handblock printed textiles from Rajasthan for their unique designs, vibrant colors, and traditional craftsmanship. The export of handblock printed fabrics contributes to the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
- Promotional of Traditional Art – Handblock printing represents the rich heritage of Rajasthan. People put much effort into preserving these traditional ways of printing so other people will also know about this.
- Market Trends – As of now traditionally made things are in trend and people want to relieve the moments of heritage. Handblock printed textiles have gained popularity in the fashion and home decor markets, leading to an increased demand for these products.
FAQs
What is the history of handblock printing in Rajasthan?
500 years ago the Chhipa community of Bagru, Jaipur introduced this printing style to the world. They have their method of printing which they pass from one generation to another.
What is the handblock method of printing?
The handblock method of printing uses a wooden dye to print the design on textiles and other items. Special recipes are needed to create the plants used in color mixing for a more effective printing result.
What are the forms of Rajasthan Handblock Printing?
Rajasthan has various kinds of Rajasthan Handblock Printing and some of them are – Bagru, Sanganeri, Chhipa, Barmeri, Anokhi, Kalamkari, and more.
Which print is famous in Rajasthan?
As of now the block prints of Rajasthan are most famous among all the other handblock prints. Indians also used the clothes of Sanganeri prints in large numbers.
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