The Story of the Block Printed Indigo Rug

This wonderful rug is handprinted in India according to the ancient block print technique. It is painted with the beautiful indigo paint. Since the rugs and runners are printed by hand, every rug is unique. 

Block printing is the process of printing patterns by means of engraved wooden blocks. It is the earliest, simplest and slowest of all methods of textile printing. Block printing by hand is a slow process. It is, however, capable of yielding highly artistic results, some of which are unobtainable by any other method.

Complicated designs are etched out in the blocks. A point on the block serves as a guide for the repeat impression, so that the whole effect is continuous and not disjoint. Accessories like hair brushes are used for filling in the blank areas between outlines of the design.

It is popular because of its ease and simplicity, while the prints are sharp and fine. Apart from that, there are huge possibilities of mix-and-match of different block designs in various colours.

The wood that is used for the blocks is of high quality, and is therefore sustainable.

Read more about block printing here.

The indigo paint can leave slight stains on the floor, which is why we recommend putting a non-slip grip mat underneath.

Size: Runner S 140x 70 cm; Rug M 120 x 205 cm and Rug L 170 x 225 cm

Material: 100% cotton

Origin: India

Use: Iron before use to best retain colours. Either dry clean or use white vinegar for stains. Mix water and vinegar (50-50) and dab the stain with a sponge or cloth (not too wet). Don't rub! The blue colour might smudge a bit since this is a handprinted rug, but that shouldn't make the rug less charming!