The Art of Block-printing: Handmade Women’s Clothing Indian history is celebrated the world over for many of its facets. One aspect of Indian heritage and culture that needs no introduction, is our gorgeous variety of ethnic clothing. A country that exhibits unity in diversity, each state has its own distinct charm. Replicating that same flair on fabric takes things further to another level altogether. Consider our geographic versatility along with our charismatic history, it comes as no surprise that women’s clothing is one such canvas that has imbibed our nation’s limitless inspiration. Taking pride in the creation of each outfit, our artisans have mastered the art of crafting handmade women’s clothing.
Using fabrics of all kinds, the clothing industry of India has prospered since time immemorial. Having stood the test of time, the textiles and handicrafts industries of India have been revered for as long as one can remember. The wardrobe for women is graced with a variety of silhouettes.
Ranging from traditional and ethnic Kurtas, Sarees, Kurtis etc. to the more contemporary tops, dresses etc., it comes as no surprise that India is known world-over for its indigenous styles. Catering to women of all sizes and body-types, with silhouettes such as relaxed fits, comfortable flared fits, to the slender and the flattering fits, the Indian woman has an array of options to pick from. Moving on from silhouettes and cuts to the prints, India is home to some of the finest fabric printing styles across the globe. Of all the printing techniques practiced in India, one that definitely stands out is the block-printing technique. A process that involves a laborious journey, each step is as important as the other. Making use of wooden-blocks to create magical patterns, the blocks are dipped in dye and pressed on to the fabric one at a time. A procedure carried out solely by hand, there is a reason this printing technique is known as a work of art. After printing is over, the cloth is left out to dry under the sun, followed subsequently by multiple washes to make sure the colour has set in and doesn’t bleed any further. Making use of a variety of dainty tones and pretty patterns, the end result is nothing short of spectacular. A technique practiced over the years and mastered over time, there is no semblance of doubt that this handmade technique cannot be imitated by machines. A way of life for many artisans across the country, many brands are coming forward, providing a platform for the art of block-printing to reach the masses, with a variety of handmade dresses online, making it ever so easy and convenient to buy handmade clothing online, especially for women.