Block printing | Method of block printing

Introduction

Block printing is the simplest, easiest, and slowest of all printing methods. A design is painted, or transferred to ready wooden blocks. Each individual color in the design requires a separate block. A block cutter first builds wood around heavy masses, leaving finer and more delicate work to the end so that the thicker parts can avoid any risk of damage when it is cut. The printer applies color to the block and presses the cloth firmly and steadily, hitting the back smartly with a wooden mallet. Block printing by hand is a slow process. But it’s an interesting thing to do. It is, of course, capable of achieving high artistic results, some of which are unnecessary by any other method. William Morris used this technique in a few of his clothes.

Block design pattern

Block printing

Block printing is the oldest printing process where a design is drawn on a wooden material, linoleum, rubber, or any other material is called block printing.

Block pattern making

Method of block printing

Multiple blocks are used for color printing, each for one color, although overprinting two colors can create more color in printing. The paper is usually made in a frame around wooden blocks.

There are three printing methods to consider-

Stamping

Used for many fabrics and mostly for early European woodcuts. These items were printed on a table with paper or fabric or a flat surface with blocks on top and printed on the back of the block with a press or hammer.

Rubbing

Currently, the most common printing in the Far East is European nuts and blocks after the 15th century and is very widely used for textiles. The block is placed on a table above the face, on top of paper or fabric. The back of the paper or fabric is rubbed with a hard pad, a flat piece of wood, burnish, or a crack of leather.

Printing in a press

Presses seem to have been used only in Asia in recent times. Normal weight presses can be used in Europe but there is a lack of firm evidence. Later, printing presses were used from about 1480.

Advantages

1. Block printing is the oldest and simplest process of printing.

2. It yields very low production

3. The cost of set up is very less.

4. Very skilled personnel is required to do such printing

5. The cost of making a design is very less,

6. The desired pattern was obtained by repeating the process using different colors.       

7. Printing is done manually.


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