A Patterned Past That Lives On

Block printing is more than just an art form—it’s a timeless narrative stamped into fabric by generations of Indian artisans. From Jaipur’s bold floral patterns to the intricate Ajrakh of Kutch, each region weaves its own story with carved wooden blocks and natural dyes.

In a world that’s racing toward automation, block printing remains a meditative act of patience, skill, and cultural pride. Let’s journey through the lanes of India where hand block printing still thrives.

“Art is not a handicraft, it is the transmission of feeling the artist has experienced.” – Leo Tolstoy

What Is Indian Block Printing?

Block printing is the process of pressing hand-carved wooden blocks dipped in dye onto fabric, one motif at a time. Its roots trace back to over 2,000 years ago in India and China, but India’s regional styles have remained most distinct.

Natural dyes—derived from plants, minerals, and even rusted iron—add depth and durability. The process may involve up to 5 stages and 15+ artisans depending on the design.

 Major Hand Block Printing Regions in India

🐘 Jaipur, Rajasthan – Bold and Floral

Known for Sanganeri and Bagru prints, Jaipur is the unofficial capital of block printing. Sanganeri prints are recognized by their delicate floral motifs in vibrant colors, while Bagru uses bold black and red natural dyes on beige backgrounds.

• Technique: Discharge and resist printing
  
• Fun Fact: Some families have been block printing for over 300 years.
  

📍 Explore our Sanganeri-style cushion covers for a taste of Jaipur tradition.

🌀 Kutch, Gujarat – The Ajrakh Tradition

Ajrakh is a laborious form of block printing using natural indigo and madder root. It’s dyed up to 14 times and dried between each layer to achieve depth.

• Motifs: Symmetrical, geometric Islamic patterns
  
• Colors: Indigo blue, maroon, black, and white
  
• Certification: Often tagged with GI (Geographical Indication) for authenticity
  

“Ajrakh is not just a fabric—it’s a spiritual blueprint.” – Local artisan, Kutch

🪷 Madhya Pradesh – Bagh Prints

The Bagh region is famous for red and black block prints using water from the Baghini river, which enhances the dye’s richness of Bagh Prints.

• Patterns: Floral vines, paisleys, and traditional butis
  

Dye Base: Alum and turmeric with natural black dye made from iron fillings.

🌾 Andhra Pradesh – Kalamkari

While traditionally painted, Kalamkari also includes block printing. Themes often revolve around epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

• Key Feature: Use of tamarind paste as the dye fixative
  
• Focus: Storytelling through prints
  

Why Regional Craft Matters in a Global Age

Supporting regional block print traditions:

• Sustains artisanal communities
  
• Keeps indigenous knowledge systems alive
  
• Offers uniquely imperfect pieces, rich in soul
  

When you buy a block-printed item, you’re not just buying a product—you’re preserving centuries of living heritage.

How Ohana Earth Keeps This Legacy Alive

At Ohana Earth, we collaborate with family-run artisan units across Rajasthan and Gujarat. Each product is hand-printed using natural dyes and responsibly sourced cotton.

🌿 See the California Blue Collection inspired by Bagru motifs.

✨ Explore handmade table runners and pillows that carry these legacies forward.

 Block Printing – From Fabric to Feelings

Region	Style	Key Motifs	Dye Source
Jaipur	Sanganeri	Florals	Indigo, Pomegranate
Bagru	Bagru	Abstracts, borders	Iron, mud, turmeric
Kutch	Ajrakh	Geometrics	Indigo, madder
Bagh	Bagh	Paisleys, vines	Alum, black dye
Andhra Pradesh	Kalamkari	Mythological scenes	Tamarind paste

Final Takeaway

In a time where speed and automation dominate production, hand block printing reminds us to slow down, honor heritage, and choose products with a soul.

Whether it’s a cushion on your sofa or a napkin on your table, every Ohana Earth piece carries India’s vibrant culture, one block at a time.