Block Printing -Bagru

Introduction: –

The tradition of block printing started in the small village of Bagru. This is not only popular in India, but it is a small village custom.  Wooden prints of Bagru have been entitled their own name Bagru Prints. This involves techniques of carving the print on the wooden block and then enriching the design which involves the chosen colour of the fabric. 

Usage-  This fabric is characterized by the sheen given to finished cloth. There are different palettes of indigo, black and red, and green, pink, and orange derived from natural sources. There are dyed prints that are catered to folk, trading, agricultural, and artisan communities. All communities have a sartorial code. There are different combinations of colours and motifs used on printed skirts.

Significance: –

• These prints are renowned for their outstanding quality. ·       
• These are environment friendly·       
• Use vegetable dyes to print the cloth.·       
• Flower patterns in original colours.    
• These prints from an indispensable part of block printing in Rajasthan·      
• Manufacturers of some of the significant bed covers and other materials·       
• Prints have made bagru a tourist attraction.

History: –

India is known for its textile and especially block printing and dyed textiles. Old literature mentions the colourful textiles produced in this region. This led scholars to start believing that India was producing colourful printed fabric, and then it was reported to European and African countries. This art form is introduced 450 years back.

Design: –

Bagru village is an important epi center of block printing and originally produced textiles for local market. It also caters to international and export markets. These prints are done on black, brown, beige and cream backgrounds. Shades of blue with much use of indigo blue dyeing processes are the characteristic point. Motifs are printed with blue lines which are inspired by word flowers, Bud leaves, and geometric prints. Bagru is famous for vegetable dyes which are used in hand block prints. This method is eco-friendly. These prints consist of eco-friendly textiles and printing practices. Block carving and printing has a local dialect. The number of blocks per design depends on the number of colors used.

Challenges: –

Bagru printing is facing quite a few problems. Retailers sell Bar products at a premium price. As usual, printers are looking for cheaper, faster options for increasing the output that put trade at risk. Factors like market demand, and poor living and working conditions have put these craftsmen to resort to trade shortcuts. With modern tools and techniques, synthetic dyes are increasingly replacing traditional art forms. There is revived interest in preserving rare art. Bar prints are increasingly in demand for home furnishings and décor. These prints and motifs are preferable for bedsheets, table linen, and time accessories.