The Art of Hand Block Printing in Sanganer, Rajasthan
Hand Block Printing is an ancient craft which has been passed down from generations. Artisans practicing block printing belong to the traditional Chhipa community in Rajasthan. This craft is a strenuous technique of creating eye catching rich, colourful, vibrant patterns on textiles. As the name suggests, a block of wood is carved with the desired pattern, dipped into the colour tray and stamped on the fabric repeatedly.
This process takes skill and time as each colour is layered on the design. The village of Sanganer resounds with the echoes of the wooden block hitting the fabric. Hand block printing uses AZO- free synthetic dyes and the designs are intricate flowers, leaves, geometric motifs etc.
Once the designs are created, the fabric is washed and dried multiple times. The family-based craft provides more income as it makes room for the women to work within the daily family routines. The intricate labour finally results in unique, timeless masterpieces. Asha Handicrafts Association continues to partner with the Chippa community, promoting their craft, and focusing on creating long term sustainable relationships for the last 4 decades.