The first standard textile printing method originated in China, where woodblock printing from 220 AD was discovered. That's a long time to perfect the art of hand printing and what’s even more exciting is the practice is still very much celebrated and practised today!
I look at three of our Haines Curates designers who all use this method in their work.
PUKKA PRINTS
Pukka Print is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the block printing tradition. They work in Jaipur with a studio that has been in existence for over twenty years; many of the printers are third or fourth generation.
The process behind each design starts with Juliet, founder of Pukka Print, drawing her patterns then sending them off to the Jaipur workshop, where the artisans redraw and carve them into the woodblocks. Each colour in the design has its block and is unique to Pukka Print.
THE CAMPBELL COLLECTION
Like Pukka Print, a considerable part of The Campbell Collection collaborates with artisans in India; they relish in their partner's rich knowledge, skill and artistry. Choosing to make products more thoughtfully and slowly means that we can help create sustainable employment for artisans all over India.
The blocks are made, then lovingly hand-carved into intricate designs. It can often take around 10-15 days to perfect a union. Once the fabric and colour are prepared, blocks are pressed firmly onto the fabric; this process is repeated until the design is complete.
BEKI BRIGHT
Screen printing was inspired by block printing and was introduced mainly to Western Europe from Asia sometime in the late 18th century. It did not gain momentum in Europe until silk mesh was more available for trade and discovered a profitable outlet for the medium.
Beki Bright's fabrics and products are screen printed in the UK and made to order in London; there is little to no waste involved with a very small production chain.
One of the things I love most about this hand-printed practice is the imperfections that naturally come with it. For me, this is the best bit.
Find out more about Haines Curates here.
