Hand Block Printing

Hand block printing is a captivating, centuries-old art form from Rajasthan, India, where skilled artisans transform fabric with intricate patterns using hand-carved wooden blocks. Passed down through generations, this craft demands precision, patience, and an eye for detail. 

Artisans begin by meticulously designing and carving teak blocks to create the pattern. These blocks will be dipped into natural dyes and then pressed onto the blank fabric repeatedly to create the pattern.

Then they prepare the natural dyes and pigments to bring vibrant colors to life. The printing process is a labor of love: washed fabric is stretched taut, and each block is carefully pressed by hand, layering patterns with close alignment.  The charm of hand block printing lies in its subtle imperfections that happen naturally when they press the blocks to the fabric by hand. These tiny quirks make every piece full of character, and their effect is breathtaking.

In complex patterns, multiple blocks and colors dance together, creating harmonious, eye-catching designs that reflect the artisans’ mastery.

With over 500 years of history, this craft is a vibrant thread in India’s cultural tapestry. At Clarity, we celebrate this heritage, championing sustainable practices and local talent while sharing the soulful beauty of hand block printing with the world.

Our garments are designed in rural Ohio and crafted in Jaipur, India.

Learn more about the culture of hand block printing, the dangers of it's rival Screen Printing, and about the lives of the printers in this short 25 minute documentary by Dekha Andheki: