Fundamentals of Textile Design 3(2+1)

Lesson 29: Printing methods

Methods of application of prints

Each of the above approaches are used in one or other methods of application as explained below

Block printing:

This is a hand method of printing with carved wooden blocks. The design in carved in raised portion on the wooden blocks which are pressed on the dye paste and later pressed on the fabric surface using pressure. If the design contains three colours, three blocks need to be carved with appropriate part of the design meant for different colour. Alignment of design when more than one block is used has a great role to play to make the design look as one in complete form. The process is slow as it is hand method and expensive in terms of quantity. Printed pieces are also priced for their intricacy and the number of colour it contains. Some irregularities in the prints will help identify the block printed designs. The design repeat also indicates the method followed in printing. Very intricate designs are not possible in this method and block also gets quickly damaged by constant use.