THE ART OF BLOCK PRINTING

The art of block printing has been practiced in India for many centuries, with each region having its own distinctive style and motifs. The wooden blocks are carved in elaborate designs and each color is printed with a different block to complete the motif. When natural dyes are used, the fabric is washed after each color is printed. As a result, it can take 3-4 weeks to produce a single hand block printed rug. Different communities are involved in each stage of the process, including weaving, dyeing, making the blocks, printing, washing, and pounding to bring out the luster of the material. The main tools of the printer are wooden blocks cut into different shapes. Each block is hand carved from seasoned teak wood by skilled artisans. The new blocks are soaked in oil for 10-15 days to soften the grain in the timber. The blocks are dipped in dye and imprinted on the fabric by a skilled block printer. To develop the intricate detail within the design, the process is repeated several times. The printed cotton voile is then put out in the sun for a few days to dry and to cure the dye. Next the fabric is steamed, which fixes the dye and makes it permanent. Most blockprinters work for daily wages because they don't have the capital to invest in the raw materials, equipment, and workshop. Also, screen-printed fabrics, which are much cheaper and more quickly produced than block-printed fabrics, now flood the markets and most consumers don't know the difference between the two. Sevya works with several block printing groups to help them become self-sufficient with direct access to marketing outlets. We promote the use of natural dyes and the revival of traditional designs, while encouraging the youth to carry on the tradition of their ancestors .