Block Printing
A design is imagined, drawn on paper, transferred to the flat surface of Sheesham wood and hand carved by artisans. Each color is printed with a different block to complete the motif being printed. A high degree is required for both the placement of block and application of pressure. Altogether there can be as many as 16 blocks to create a 5-color design. A set of blocks can be used to print on average 1500 – 2000 yards of fabric after which some have to be replaced. The colors we use for printing are derived from non-toxic chemical and mineral dyes. We also use vegetable dyes. Chemicals dyes have replaced vegetable pigments to withstand present day washing and color-fast requirements and to allow for a wider range of colors. A block printed cloth reflects the touch of a human hand, the sensibility and skill of the craftsman, making every piece unique. |
Blue Pottery
Blue Pottery is widely recognized as a traditional craft from Jaipur, Rajasthan in India. Manufacturing in Jaipur is now a flourishing industry. The initial range of products available were primarily decorative, however, thanks to the initiative of some producers of this craft, blue pottery is now available in a food safe range of products as well. Due to its nature, this pottery is not dishwasher safe. |
A dough is made out of a mix of quartz stone powder, powdered glass, Fuller’s Earth, borax, gum and water and put into molds. After being shaped they are taken out to dry and then sanded down to create a smooth surface. Artisans trace the desired pattern onto each piece and paint the chosen colors. Finally, it is low fired in a charcoal kiln to create the final piece. |
