P ractical Theme: Preparation of articles using applied textile design technique (Block Printing) Task: Learning the technique of block printing and creating patterns using blocks Theory: One of the oldest methods for application of design onto fabric is block printing. In block printing, a separate block is required for each different colour in the finished design. The blocks are constructed so that the design area is raised, and the background area, which is not to be printed, is carved away. The majority of the blocks are made of wood, but metal may be used to reinforce parts of the design.
The blocks may have single motif patterns, border patterns or all-over patterns Purpose . To learn the concept of block printing . To learn the process of block printing Conducting the practical Colours for fabric printing and wooden block printing are available in the market. Begin the process of printing with laying the fabric flat on a padded table which is covered with a protective sheet.
Care must be taken to attach the fabric firmly to the table so that its movement during printing is prevented. Apply the dye paste in a uniform layer to the raised portion of the block, by lightly pressing the block in the printing tray containing the dye paste on a sponge base. Then press the block on the fabric surface with sufficient pressure to force the colour into the fabric. When using multicoloured blocks, start printing with the outline block in the darkest colour and then print with the filling blocks in lighter colours.
Leave the fabric to dry. Later hot press it from the wrong side.