Echoes Of Tradition: Sustainable Block Printing at Label Saasha
Echoes Of Tradition: Sustainable Block Printing at Label Saasha
Life should evolve beyond its past while preserving its traditions. In today's rapid-fire world of technology and mass production, the market often neglects the profound beauty of our cultural heritage. However, one tradition that still stands tall is block printing.
Throughout history, block printing has been closely associated with diverse regions in India. With its unique imperfections, block printing never failed to fulfil our desire for creativity and style. So, join us on a journey through the sustainable block printing process at Label Saasha, where tradition meets innovation.
History Of Block Printing
Are you wondering when block printing originated? Well, would you believe it if I said around 4000 years ago in China? Unbelievable right? But it is a fact. From its beginnings in China, block printing journeyed to India, where it was embraced, nurtured, and transformed into a cultural masterpiece. It came to India long ago in a region that is now Gujarat and Rajasthan. It then spread across the country, becoming intricately interwoven with the fabric of Indian customs and traditions.
The oldest record of Indian block print cloth and textiles dates back to the Indus Valley civilization. Hence, block printing is an ancient art form intricately woven into the diverse tapestry of traditions across the Indian region. Even on the eve of modernization, block printing continued to play a crucial role in the global trade network. However, it did face severe challenges with mechanized product methods.
Thus, we at Label Saasha are on a mission to reignite the passion for the authentic, sustainable craft of block printing with our skilled artisans.
Process Of Block Printing
Let us briefly go through our block printing process to enlighten ourselves.
- Fabric Priming
Our artisans kickstart the process by soaking the fabric for 24–48 hours. Our artisans utilize local river water and beat the fabric against river stones to render it soft. Such methods help us promote sustainable clothing. Then, it is dried out in the sun in a natural manner.
- Carving The Blocks
The main step of the process is carving the blocks for the print. A master blockmaker will trace the motif onto a wooden block made of teak. Then, the wood is carefully oiled and chipped away to bring the design to life. Our artisans usually take inspiration from traditional Indian motifs, but we also focus on contemporary geometric blocks.
- Fabric Dyeing and Color Mixing
Next, we dye our fabric with its base color. Thereafter, the artisans mix different colors to create the desired color palette. Yes, all our dyes are organic, ensuring vibrant hues while staying eco-friendly.
- Block Printing
Finally, after the color mixing, the artisans lay the fabric flat on a table and fix it with pins. Now, the printing starts. They dip the carved wood block into the dye and firmly press it against the fabric. The stamp is either hit by hand or hammered to imprint the pattern with a flawless finish.
Our artisans have perfected this craft with their steadiest hands and unmatched expertise. Since it is a labor-intensive process, it needs time and precision.
- Final Washing
Lastly, the final washing of the fabric takes place using natural water resources. It is then sun-dried, which makes the process sustainable with minimum energy consumption. As India’s leading manufacturing unit for block print clothing manufacturer for women & kids fashion, we commit ourselves to reducing our carbon footprint. Hence, our objective is to promote quality through sustainability.
The Speciality of Block Printing
The art of block printing has been the way of life for the past four generations, especially in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat. From the Bagru printing of Rajasthan to the Ajrakh prints of Gujarat, block print fabric and sustainable clothing practices hold a special place in the hearts of many.
Moreover, in this age of machines and 3-D printing, Label Saasha aims to cherish sustainable fashion created by hand with skill and care. While printing techniques have evolved over centuries, we keep the original methods intact. It helps us give a sense of immense satisfaction to our rural artisans, who deeply resonate with these cherished traditions.
So, with block printing, we aim to promote eco-friendly fashion practices while showcasing ancient Indian art. Our mission is to celebrate the efforts of our artisans, who pour their hearts and souls into the process of block printing.
Label Saasha welcomes you to kick start your clothing brand with us and create artistic sustainable clothing with our block print fabrics in our manufacturing unit.
Proudly Made in India
Namaste
Label Saasha
0 comments