Block-printing, the age-old printing technique we use to create Beastly textiles, is a beautiful, labor-intensive, multi-stage process. It is the ultimate example of slow fashion. What does block-printing look like? Let’s start with the hand-carved wooden blocks.
Block-carving is a critically important part of the printing process. Without a perfect tool to print with, the final prints will be messy and off-kilter. The block-carving skill is passed from generation to generation, allowing this stunning artform to endure even in these technology-heavy modern times.
It all starts with a sketch, drawing, or painting or more often, several of them, evolving and changing over time, slowly getting closer to the final, perfect design. Once the design is complete, I send images to the carvers to create the 8 x 8 inch blocks, one per color. So if the design only has one printed color (other than the background color) like the Jaguar, only one block is required. Designs like the Mollusk and Wild Dog include more printed colors (four and two respectively), so require more blocks. Obviously the more colors and blocks mean a more time-intensive printing process.
Each block design is printed out and traced on to the block of wood. This has to be done very carefully to ensure that the printed shapes line up and the edges are smooth. Once the design has been drawn onto the wood, the carver begins to cut away extra wood with chisels, hammers, and a small bow drill. The carved block is then cured to ensure that the wood doesn't warp and can be used over and over again.
With finished blocks, the printing can begin. Stay tuned for our next post to learn more about block-printing!
(Photos by Anchit Natha)
