Our Process

The Art of Hand Block Printing

Every piece from Jaipur Dohar is created using a meticulous, time-honoured process that has been passed down through generations of skilled artisans. Hand block printing is far more than a printing technique—it is a traditional craft that demands exceptional skill, patience and years of experience.

Here's how each design comes to life.

Step 1: Design Creation

Every collection begins with carefully selected motifs inspired by Jaipur's rich artistic heritage. Our designers draw upon the timeless Bagru and Sanganeri printing traditions, taking inspiration from nature, geometric patterns and centuries-old design styles. Every design is thoughtfully developed to ensure it translates beautifully onto fabric.

Step 2: Hand-Carving the Wooden Blocks

Expert craftsmen meticulously hand-carve each wooden printing block with remarkable precision. Made from seasoned teak wood, every block is a work of art in its own right, featuring raised patterns that transfer the design onto fabric.

A single design often requires several blocks—one for each colour and layer of the pattern. Creating these blocks can take several days for more intricate designs, and they are carefully preserved and used for many years.

Step 3: Preparing the Fabric

Before printing begins, every fabric is thoroughly washed and prepared to ensure it absorbs the natural dyes evenly. This essential stage helps achieve the rich, long-lasting colours and soft finish that Jaipur Dohar products are known for.

Step 4: Preparing the Dyes

Along with pigment we also use natural dyes derived from plants, minerals and other naturally sourced ingredients. Prepared using traditional methods, these eco-friendly dyes produce rich, beautiful colours that are gentle on both your home and the environment.

Achieving consistent shades requires considerable expertise, making dye preparation an important part of the craftsmanship.

Step 5: Hand Block Printing

This is where the craftsmanship truly comes to life.

Our experienced artisans carefully dip each hand-carved wooden block into natural dye before pressing it onto the fabric by hand. Every impression is made individually, requiring remarkable precision and consistency throughout the entire process.

Each piece demands:

  • Precision – Every block must align perfectly to create seamless repeating patterns.

  • Consistency – Even pressure is applied to ensure uniform colour across the fabric.

  • Patience – A single dohar or bedsheet may require hundreds of individual impressions.

  • Skill – Mastering this craft takes many years of practice and experience.

For designs featuring multiple colours, the process is repeated using different blocks and dyes, with each layer allowed to dry before the next is applied.

Step 6: Drying & Finishing

Once printed, each piece is naturally dried in the sunshine to help set the colours. The fabric is then gently washed once more to remove any excess dye while enhancing its softness, resulting in the comfortable, lived-in feel our customers love.

Hand Block Printing vs Machine Printing

Hand Block Printing

  • Every piece is unique, with subtle variations that celebrate its handmade nature.

  • Takes several days—or even weeks—to complete, depending on the complexity of the design.

  • Supports skilled artisan communities and helps preserve traditional craftsmanship.

  • Uses natural, eco-friendly dyes.

  • Creates rich colours with beautiful depth and character.

  • Every piece carries the story and craftsmanship of the artisan who made it.

Machine Printing

  • Produces identical, mass-produced designs.

  • Can be completed within minutes.

  • Often relies on synthetic dyes and chemical processes.

  • Lacks the texture, individuality and character of handcrafted work.

  • Does not support traditional artisan skills or heritage craftsmanship.

Time, Skill & Craftsmanship

Creating a single hand block printed dohar can take anywhere from several days to more than a week, depending on the complexity of the design and the number of colours involved.

Our artisans have spent years—and often decades—perfecting their craft. This level of expertise cannot be hurried or replicated by machines.

When you choose Jaipur Dohar, you're investing in far more than beautifully crafted home furnishings. You're supporting generations of traditional knowledge, skilled workmanship and the dedication of artisans who take genuine pride in every piece they create.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Traditional hand block printing is naturally sustainable.

  • Natural Materials – We use natural fibres and avoid unnecessary harmful chemicals.

  • Lower Environmental Impact – Hand printing requires significantly less water and energy than large-scale industrial printing.

  • Supporting Local Artisan Communities – Every purchase helps support artisan families in Jaipur.

  • Preserving Traditional Craftsmanship – By keeping these techniques alive, we help protect a centuries-old craft for future generations.

The Artisans Behind Every Jaipur Dohar

Behind every Jaipur Dohar product is a community of highly skilled artisans whose knowledge has been passed down through generations. These talented craftspeople continue to practise the art of hand block printing with the same pride, dedication and attention to detail as their ancestors.

By choosing Jaipur Dohar, you are helping preserve this remarkable heritage while supporting the livelihoods of artisan families in Jaipur.

We are proud to work alongside these exceptional makers and honoured to share their craftsmanship with homes across the United Kingdom.