The Illustrious History of Indian Block Printing and Its Resurgence

Written by Natalie Aldridge.

Decor enthusiasts can appreciate the alluring presence of block prints in today’s interiors. Whether adorning plush throw pillows, luxe upholstered furniture, or richly appointed tabletops, this textile technique has stood the test of time, and in recent years made a  resurgence. But beyond its aesthetic charm, the intricate history of block printing reveals a compelling tale of resilience and craftsmanship.

The art of hand block printing is thought to have originated in ancient China over 4000 years ago. But our story truly begins with India in the 12th century. India’s journey to becoming the world’s hub of block printing begins with the creation of beautiful block printed fabrics for the royal courts. Under the Mughal Empire, many centuries later, the art began to flourish within regions like Gujrat and Rajasthan.

The art form then spread to other regions of the country, each adding their own twist and techniques making for unique color and pattern combinations. Slowly, block printed textiles became a point of great national pride and tradition for India but did not quite reach the rest of the globe.

In the 1950s, revolutionary American designers, Charles and Ray Eames, went on a grand tour of India. Upon their return they gave the Indian government a report called “The India Report” that explored how India could keep and enhance its traditional craft industries. This report led to the establishment of the National Institute of Design in 1961, which works to preserve and spread this valuable art form.

Today, India still reigns supreme as the hub of this ancient craft, where masterful artisans meticulously carve wooden blocks with precision before delicately submerging them in vibrant dyes and pressing them onto textiles and paper. To ensure an exquisite final product, each hue and every element requires the creation of a distinct block. Every detail a separate layer building upon each other to final print. The craft is honed over years of dedicated practice, passed down from one generation to the next with deep reverence for tradition.

Molly Mahon

While block printed textiles and wallcoverings have existed for many millennia, its sudden stardom is timely. With growing interest in hand crafted goods, print-making facilities have experienced revitalization. Younger generations are again exploring the magic of the traditional craft. Many Western designers such as Molly Mahon, Soane Britain, and John Robshaw have embraced the beauty of this textile and their love for India by producing block printed textiles of their own. Julia Amory has made block print de rigueur for tabletop and fashion amongst the the Grandmillennial set. The art form has since brought us beautiful textiles, wallpaper, and beyond, far above the ability of any machine to duplicate.

John Robshaw

Take a look at some of our favorite block print clad interiors!

Mark D. Sikes
Vaughan Designs
Robert Couturier
Patricia McLean
Amanda Lindroth courtesy of Carmel Brantley Photography
Molly Mahon
Soane Britain
Soane Britain
Sarah Bartholomew
Cathy Kincaid
Julia Amory

Shop our chic block print finds!

x Natalie

Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad

Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge

2 COMMENTS

  1. Thank you for this interesting post! Personally I like these prints because they are a way to add pattern and color to a room yet still be on the casual side. Always so pretty and uplifting! ????

  2. I appreciate learning more about the history of block printing. I really like the look which is charming and a subtle way to add interest to a room.

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