Question 1

What is Ajrakh block printing and where does it come from?

Accepted Answer

Ajrakh block printing is an ancient textile printing technique that originated over 4,000 years ago in the Indus Valley civilisation. It is traditionally practised by a small number of printing families whose knowledge has been passed down through generations. Today, authentic Ajrakh is still made in only a few regions, mainly Kutch in Gujarat and parts of Sindh, using a complex resist-printing process and natural plant and mineral dyes.
The process involves multiple stages of hand block printing, washing, dyeing and sun-drying, often taking several weeks to complete. Characterised by deep indigo, madder red and rich earthy tones, Ajrakh patterns are carefully balanced and often symmetrical, reflecting both cultural symbolism and technical mastery. 
As the technique spread east over time, simpler forms of block printing developed, but true Ajrakh remains one of the most intricate and alchemic textile traditions still practised today.

Question 2

How is authentic Ajrakh fabric made?

Accepted Answer

Handcrafted Ajrakh clothing is made through a multi-stage resist-printing process using hand-carved wooden blocks and natural plant and mineral dyes. The fabric is printed, washed, dyed and sun-dried repeatedly, with each colour added in a separate stage. The process can take several weeks and requires precise alignment of multiple blocks, resulting in richly patterned cloth with natural variation.

Question 3

Why are natural dyes better than synthetic dyes in clothing?

Accepted Answer

Natural dyes are considered better than synthetic dyes because they are made from renewable plant and mineral sources and have a much lower environmental impact. Traditional natural dyeing uses materials such as indigo, madder root and iron, and avoids many of the harsh chemicals commonly found in synthetic and azo dyes, which pollute waterways and require heavy chemical fixing agents. Natural dyes also support small scale artisans rather than awful companies such as Dow Chemicals who make many of the common standard dyes.
Clothing dyed with natural dyes tends to age more gracefully, developing softness and character over time rather than breaking down or shedding colour aggressively. While natural dyes can show gentle variation and fading, this is part of their appeal and reflects the handmade natural process behind the cloth. When produced using traditional methods, natural dyeing supports craft livelihoods and encourages slower, more responsible textile production. 
Natural dyes are also much better against the skin and don't have any health risks associated with azo dyes which are commonly used in mass produced textiles.

Question 4

How can you tell if Ajrakh clothing is authentic?

Accepted Answer

Authentic Ajrakh clothing can be recognised by several key features. 
First, it is made using natural plant and mineral dyes, which give the fabric rich, earthy colours that may vary slightly from piece to piece. Secondly, the patterns are hand printed using wooden blocks, requiring precise alignment of multiple interlocking blocks for complex designs. You may notice subtle imperfections, small irregularities in the print or colour which are a sign of handcrafted work rather than machine printing or screen printed copies. 
Additionally, authentic Ajrakh is produced by families who have passed down the technique for generations, primarily in Kutch (India) and parts of Sindh. Unlike mass-produced copies, the fabric is usually soft, breathable, and ages gracefully with time. Checking the origin, dye type, and the complexity of the patterns can help distinguish true Ajrakh from imitation textiles.
Due to the long and involved multi stage process you will rarely find "cheap" ajrakh clothing, we believe our shirts offer excellent value considering the huge amount of time and skill that goes into each piece.

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