Jaipur & the Soul of Hand Block Printing

 Jaipur, The Cultural Heart of Rajasthan

Welcome to Jaipur—a city of sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars, regal charm, and deep-rooted craftsmanship. Among its many artistic treasures, one tradition stands out for its elegance, sustainability, and soulful touch: hand block printing.

In this blog, we journey through the history of hand block printing in Jaipur, the artisans behind the craft, and how this timeless tradition continues to inspire modern fashion at Kapaas.

Jaipur’s role in hand block printing isn't recent—it’s ancient. The region’s dry climate made it ideal for dyeing and sun-drying fabrics, while its royal courts inspired much of the iconography still used today.

The motifs are drawn from local flora, Mughal influences, and everyday village life. 

In the villages of Sanganer and Bagru, just outside Jaipur, hand block printing has flourished for over 500 years. Passed down through generations, this craft is a true blend of  precision and patience.

In Sanganer, known for its delicate floral patterns and bright colours, the process is more intricate—often requiring multiple blocks for a single motif.
Bagru, on the other hand, embraces earthier tones and bolder designs, using a traditional mud-resist printing technique that feels as old as the soil itself.

These villages are not museums. They’re still alive. Still printing. Still teaching. Still telling stories through cloth.

 

In a world rushing toward fast fashion, Jaipur’s artisans continue their craft with patience, passion, and pride. 

At Kapaas, we are proud to collaborate with these artisans, honouring their craft while creating designs that suit contemporary lifestyles.

Every piece is a bridge—between past and present, between maker and wearer.

(Jaipur block printing, hand block printing history, traditional Indian textiles, sustainable fashion India, Kapaas Australia)

Namaste