Crafts of India

Indigo Dyeing and Printing

Indigo dyeing is one of the age-old crafts of India, highly prominent in Jaipur, where artisans create vivacious blue tones from natural indigo plants. This traditional process consists of resist dyeing techniques, with fabric dipped multiple times to achieve deep shades.

Indigo prints are seen in Jaipuri bedsheets and garments, radiating a timeless elegance connecting ancient crafts with modern fashion.

Ajrak Block Printing

Ajrak block printing is known for its origin in the Kutch region and Rajasthan. It involves intricate hand-carved wooden blocks to create bold designs using natural dyes like indigo and madder.

This craft is deeply connected to Indian culture, with Jaipuri Ajrak prints on dupattas and sarees reflecting a blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

Kalamkari Block Printing

Kalamkari is a centuries-old Indian craft that uses a pen (kalam) or blocks to depict mythological scenes, floral patterns, and intricate designs.

Practised in Andhra Pradesh and parts of Rajasthan, Jaipuri artisans have adopted the craft and produce vibrant hand-printed fabrics for sarees, kurtas, and bed linen. Each Kalamkari piece tells a hidden story, bringing Indian folklore alive on fabric.

Ikat Weaving and Printing

Ikat is a complex tie-dye technique that involves resist-dyeing the yarns before weaving and results in vibrant and geometric patterns.

Indian Ikat originated from regions like Odisha and Andhra Pradesh and is a fine example of indigenous craftsmanship. Jaipuri weavers integrate Ikat into their designs, combining it with block printing to create beautiful fusion textiles for both traditional and modern apparel.

Bagh Dyeing and Printing

Bagh printing originates from Madhya Pradesh. This hand-block printing technique uses natural dyes from vegetables and flowers to create patterns inspired by nature. Jaipuri versions of Bagh prints combine traditional floral patterns with deep colors.

Dabu Printing

Dabu printing is a traditional mud-resist hand-block printing technique rooted in Rajasthan, particularly in Jaipur’s craft heritage. Artisans apply a special mud paste on fabric, followed by dyeing with natural colors.

This technique creates beautiful motifs, earthy textures, and vibrant prints, prominently seen in Jaipuri bed linens and garments, highlighting Rajasthan’s timeless artistry in textiles.