Every hand block printed piece is printed one stamp at a time, often with natural or vegetable-based dyes. That is what gives it its depth and character — and why it asks for a little more care than a factory print.
The first wash
- Wash it on its own. Some excess dye may come out in the first one or two washes, especially in deep colours like indigo, rust and black. This is normal for hand-dyed fabric.
- Cold water only. Hot water loosens dye and can shrink cotton.
- Do not soak for long. A quick rinse is better than a long soak.
Every wash after that
- Hand wash or the gentle cycle, in cold water, with similar colours.
- Use a mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and strong powders; they fade natural dyes.
- Turn the garment inside out to protect the printed surface.
- Do not wring. Press the water out gently, or roll it in a towel.
Drying
Dry in the shade. Strong sun is the biggest enemy of natural colours — it fades a print far faster than washing does. Hang kurtas on a hanger or flat, inside out, so they keep their shape.
Ironing
Iron on the reverse, on a medium setting for cotton, while the fabric is very slightly damp. For mulmul and lighter cottons, use a lower setting.
A note on colour
A gentle softening of colour over time is part of the charm of hand block prints — they age beautifully. But if a piece bleeds heavily after the first couple of washes, please tell us; we want to know.
Read more care guides in the Journal.
