Sanganeri Hand Block Printing
Hand Block Printing
History
Sanganer printing originated in Sanganer, near Jaipur, toward the end of the 17th century when printers from Gujarat migrated to Rajasthan. These artisans formed a large, supportive community with block printing at its core. Sanganer remains a major center known for skilled technique, fast colours, and harmonious motifs that define its unique character.
Raw Materials and Tools
Raw Materials:
- Fabric
- Water
- Bleach
- Natural and synthetic dyes
- Printing paste
Tools:
- Wooden printing blocks
- Printing tables
- Steaming equipment
- Washing and drying setup
- Ironing equipment
Process
Sanganer prints are made on light fabrics. First, the cloth is scoured in bleach for 24–48 hours, then washed and dried. Artisans hand-print outlines and fill colours using wooden blocks. The fabric is sun-dried, steamed, washed, dried again, and ironed to fix the colours.
Design and Color
Sanganer is renowned for small, delicate floral patterns—butis and butas—printed on fine cotton and silk, often on bright white grounds. Motifs include flowers, paisleys, vines, leaves, and birds; most designs are named after elements from nature.
Product Range
Historically printed for royalty and nobility, Sanganeri textiles today include colourful dresses, dress materials, bed sheets, curtains, and diverse home textiles for everyday clients, and are widely exported.