About Us

We’re not just creating fabrics — we’re reviving tradition, empowering local talent, and encouraging a slower, more conscious way of living.

History of hand block printing on textiles

The traditional process of hand block printing on textiles, with rich natural colors, has been practiced in Rajasthan for around 500 years.  Block printing was introduced to the Jaipur region of Rajasthan by the Chhipa community.  This community was originally located in Bagru Village, an area now famous for its vegetable dye and mud resist (dabu) block prints.  

The art of block printing has been passed down for generations within families and communities and has branched out in recent decades to other regions such as Sanganer, near Jaipur.  In traditional Bagru style block printing, the ‘recipes’ for the traditional plant-based dyes are developed within each family and kept alive from generation to generation. 

The colors are dependent on the quality of the plants, the water, skill, and knowledge of the printing masters.  In more recent forms of block printing, such as those practiced in Sanganer, colors are mixed using AZO free pigment color with a binder.

The Process of hand block printing on textiles

Block Carving

A print starts with the design, drawn on paper and carved into the Sheesham wood block.  Designs are meticulously carved by hand into the blocks which are approximately 18-25 cm across. The physical blocks, one for each color in the print design, are used to stamp a single repeat which is then stamped in rows across the fabric, forming a seamless repeat.  

Each color in the design is carved into a separate block. Block carving is in itself an art requiring years of apprenticeship to gain mastery and is done entirely by hand.

When printing, the ground color block, known as the ‘gud,’ is stamped first. This is followed by the outline block or ‘rekh,’ which is the most intricate and is typically the outline for a floral or lattice-type design.  Next comes the fill block or ‘datta.’ 

Color Mixing-Preparing the Dyes

Once the blocks are carved, the master printer prepares the colors which will be used in printing.  The colors are then poured into wooden trays which use a handmade mesh as a spongy surface to help spread the color evenly across the bottom of the block.

The printer stamps the block in the color tray each time, then stamps the block onto the fabric to form the repeat pattern.  The colors shown are AZO free, eco-friendly synthetic colors that are used in Sanganer printing.

For each new design, we do a color check and test out new color combinations.  We use Pantone TPG/TPX reference codes for color matching.  Above, our master printer, Ghanshyam Ji, is working with our team to develop a series of new colorways for a new collection.

Printing Process

Each color pattern is stamped individually onto the fabric; the process takes skill and time, as the pattern must be stamped repeatedly across the fabric, color by color. The slight human irregularities — inevitable in handwork — create the artistic effect emblematic of block prints. The final outcome of this intricate labor is a timeless beauty, and every garment made from this fabric is unique.

The printing master must carefully align each block as he prints, using the ‘guide’ carved on the left edge of the block as his marker. 

Each printer has a slightly different style which is considered his ‘signature’ look.  The printing master must then follow the same pattern of aligning the blocks with each color layered onto the design.  The subtle gaps and overlaps are a beautiful reminder of the handwork and give block printing its iconic look.  All prints exemplify this aesthetic and have a subtle pattern of light/dark across the design.

Block printing villages are known for their rhythmic ‘tock-tock’ sound of the block printer hitting the wood block to ‘stamp’ the pattern.  It is an enchanting sound that echoes through the village and is a reminder of the significance of artisan work.

Style of hand block printing on textiles

The original Bagru style printing traditionally used natural vegetable dyes and mud resist techniques to print on cottons and silks.

Traditional Bagru designs reflect nature in floral, leaf, and geometric motifs.  Later techniques incorporated Persian motifs and developed block printing into a highly intricate style.

Hand block printing now also extends to Jaipur and Sanganer with the use of AZO-free, synthetic dyes (such as pigment and indigo sol) and different styles of printing.

Indo-Western Designs

In recent decades, designers from the West have worked closely with local artisans to create Indo-Western styles that are inspired by other cultures, pop-art, nature, and city-scapes.  This collaboration has been beneficial for everyone as new designs emerge, but also it helps to tell the story of block printing and keep the market alive. 

We work both in Bagru and Sanganer.  In Sanganer, we work at our own facility using AZO free, eco-friendly, pigment colors with our own print designs. The advantage of ‘modern’ synthetic dyes is that they are colorfast, easier to make, and machine washable. In Bagru, we work closely with a local printer using vegetable dye and dabu mud resist techniques in traditional prints such as indigo prints.

Rooted in Heritage. Grown with Heart.

ROOTS JAIPUR is more than just a textile brand — it’s a tribute to the soul of Indian craftsmanship. What began in 2005 as a mother-daughter passion project has grown into a movement dedicated to preserving the centuries-old tradition of Sanganeri block printing, while building a future that supports sustainable fashion, ethical business, and empowered artisanship.

We are proud to be a unit of Jyoti Textile Printer, working from the heart of Sanganer, Jaipur — a town known for its rich legacy in hand block printing. Every design we create, every piece we print, carries a part of this cultural heritage forward.

Our Mission

To preserve and promote the traditional art of block printing while creating eco-conscious, handcrafted textiles that empower artisans and inspire conscious living.

Our Vision

We envision a world where slow fashion isn’t a trend — it’s a mindset. A world where every home supports local artistry, where sustainability isn’t a choice but a responsibility, and where heritage finds its place in every wardrobe and space.

Our Values.

Sustainability

We use  recycle fabric scraps, and produce in small batches to reduce waste and environmental impact.

Empowerment

We are proud to be part of the Startup India initiative and actively support women-led workspaces and local talent.

Transparency & Ethics

From sourcing to stitching, we ensure ethical production, fair wages, and a respectful workplace for every artisan involved.

Our Sustainability Commitments

At the heart of our brand is a deep respect for people, planet, and craft. Here’s how we ensure every piece is made with integrity:

Traditional Artisan Crafts

  • Hand block printing
  • Handloom fabrics

We proudly celebrate India’s rich textile heritage, preserving centuries-old techniques while supporting artisan communities.

Sustainable Fabrics – Organic Cotton

Responsibly Sourced in India
We use certified organic cotton that’s soft on your skin and safe for the planet — grown without harmful chemicals, pesticides, or synthetic fertilizers.

Fair Trade & Sustainable Manufacturing

  • Living wages
  • No discrimination
  • No forced labour
  • No child labour
  • Timely payments
  • Clean, safe working conditions

We believe ethical practices are non-negotiable. Every artisan in our supply chain is treated with dignity and respect.

Eco-Friendly Practices

  • Organic cotton & natural fibers
  • Hand block printing
  • AZO-free dyes
  • Water filtration & recycling

Every step of our production minimizes environmental impact. We choose biodegradable materials and eco-conscious processes.

Why Choose ROOTS JAIPUR

What Our Clients Say

Real stories from happy customers who love the craft, quality, and care behind every piece.

Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together

Whether you’re a boutique owner, designer, or launching your own brand — ROOTS JAIPUR is ready to bring your vision to life with handcrafted, sustainable block-printed textiles.

From custom orders to bulk printing, our skilled artisans are here to collaborate with you.

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