How it's Made : Block Print Silk Scarves

Woodblock printing is a time-honored technique that is producing some surprisingly modern designs. Patterns carved in relief are still thoughtfully stamped as they were in the past, but the arrangement of these patterns and a bold choice of color is what makes them really interesting. Our Block Print Chiffon Scarves are the perfect example of this fusion of old and new, and we are happy to give you a behind the scenes glimpse at how they are made.

Block Print Charmeuse Scarf- Rhapsody in Blue | Block Print Charmeuse Scarf- Terracotta | Block Print Chiffon Scarf- Royal Blue | Block Print Chiffon Scarf- Zinnia   

Elements of nature, man made structures, symbols of Indian culture, and simple geometrical forms were all used as inspiration for these designs. These visions are sketched, and a design repeat is created using the CAD (Computer Aided Design) process.

Various elements of the design are then identified for carving on a wooden block. Separate blocks are carved for each color.

Depending on the design, white silk is hand dyed or spray painted to create the background surface. Textures are created using simple tools such as combs, metal pieces, brushes, papers, plexi glass, scrubs, wood grains, and more.

The main design motifs are printed on the fabric using acid dyes, and then the printed fabric is steamed, washed and dried.