"Printing Legacy: A Journey Through Rajasthan’s Hand Block Art"

Guardians of Tradition: The Hand Block Print Artisans of Rajasthan

In the heart of Rajasthan, where vibrant history meets soulful artistry, live the unsung heroes of Indian fashion — the hand block print artisans of Sanganer and Bagru. These skilled craftspeople have carried forward a centuries-old legacy, using nothing but hand-carved wooden blocks, natural dyes, and the magic of their touch.

Sanganeri Prints: Delicate, Detailed, Distinct

Originating from the town of Sanganer, just outside Jaipur, Sanganeri block prints are celebrated for their fine floral motifs, soft pastel hues, and intricate detailing. Traditionally printed on white or off-white cotton fabrics, Sanganeri prints showcase the finesse of precision carving and perfect alignment — a skill passed down through generations.

Image: A close-up of Sanganeri floral blocks being pressed onto cotton fabric, with natural dyes spread on wooden trays beside the artisan.

Bagru Prints: Earthy, Bold, Timeless

Just 30 km from Jaipur lies Bagru, a village synonymous with deep, earthy tones and geometric or floral designs. Bagru printing is characterized by its use of natural dyes — indigo, turmeric, and madder root — and its distinctive mud-resist technique, known as Dabu.

Unlike Sanganeri prints, which are soft and light, Bagru designs often feature bold black, red, and ochre motifs, creating a striking contrast against beige or cream backdrops.

Image: A craftsman preparing fabric with mud paste for the Dabu resist process, with wooden blocks and indigo dye vats in the background.

The Process: A Labor of Love

The journey of block printing is slow, detailed, and full of heart:

1. Block Carving: Skilled artisans chisel patterns onto teakwood blocks.

2. Fabric Preparation: Cotton fabric is washed, sun-dried, and treated with harda (a natural mordant).

3. Printing: With careful alignment, artisans stamp the fabric by hand, one color and one block at a time.

4. Dyeing and Washing: Natural dyes are fixed using traditional methods, followed by multiple rounds of washing and drying.

Why It Matters

In a world leaning into fast fashion, the work of these artisans is a quiet rebellion — a celebration of sustainability, heritage, and human touch. Supporting these crafts not only helps preserve Indian textile traditions but also uplifts artisan families who rely on this legacy for their livelihood.

Where Craft Meets Contemporary

At Prints of Legacy, we partner with artisan clusters in Sanganer and Bagru to bring their stories and creations into your everyday wardrobe. Every shirt and kurta you wear carries with it the soul of Rajasthan — printed by hand, preserved by heart.