Dabu Print – A Typical Art of Hand Block Printing

Introduction

Dabu printing is known as a traditional sculpture in hand-block printing in Rajasthan. Artisans of Rajasthan make a mud-resist material using a mixture of desert sands called "Dabu”. This unique art is used to leave effects as mud-colored block prints on fabric. Today, Dabu print is generally applied to decorate traditional archetypal outfits and home accessories. The technique involves using a mixture of mud and other natural materials to create a resist pattern on the fabric, which is then dyed in indigo or other natural dyes. The mud mixture is applied to the fabric using a wooden block, which has the desired pattern carved on it.

History

Rajasthan is acknowledged as the most prolific state for hand-block printing in India. According to ancient times, the origin of this art was found in China. Within a long time, hand block print extended in India and today villages of (Sanganer, Bagru, and Angola) Rajasthan have become the most prominent producers of various hand block prints. Dabu print was produced about 675 A.D in the village of Akola, Chittorgarh district. The way of making Dabu is known as “Dabanna” which means “press”. To keep the Families in Akola continue to make this fabric to preserve their traditional heritage.

Because of the prevalent alternatives, the art died before independence, but it began to resurface in the twenty-first century. Families in Akola continue to make this fabric to preserve their traditional heritage. Because of the prevalent alternatives, the art died before independence, but it began to resurface in the twenty-first century.

Making of Dabu Print

This eco-friendly print is produced from the amalgamation of various organic materials. The procedure goes through meticulously and occupies natural colorants and vegetable glues. The given materials are used to create a particular Dabu print-

1. The most useful component for creating a Dabu print is black or brown clay that can be obtained from nearby ponds in villages.
2. The mud of clay leaves an actual effect on the course of action.
3. Gum Arabic is added to the mixture to provide a base of bonding to block design and textile.
4. Wheat powder generates a strong adhesion and gets a better quality paste to print designs.
5. Indigo is the most used dye in the Dabu print process, both types of natural and chemical indigo have evolved in the blending.

These days, many basic fabrics are included for stamping Dabu print. Cotton, Silk, chiffon georgettes, and others show the best outcomes with this mud-resist print. The Dabu print fabric has minor bleeding properties

Motifs

Typically in most of the hand block prints, nature-inspired motifs are used. Some traditionally popular motifs are- sunflowers, animals, peacocks, leaves, fruits, etc Moreover, some geometric designs such are vertical and horizontal lines, dotty lines, and many distinctive shapes are created in Dabu prints.

Global Presence

As the hand block prints (Bagru print and Sanganer print) are well-liked in the countries, Dabu print has gained popularity for vivacious and exceptional designs. Artisans are exclusively using this fine art for all kinds of fabrics that hold decorative drawings with different color shades. Particularly for the cotton and silk textiles, artisans are using this print to leave a very well impact as hand block prints. Today, Dabu print fabrics are popular all over the world, with designers and consumers alike appreciating the traditional craftsmanship and unique beauty of these textiles. Block prints look amazing on Indian ethnic wear such as an Anarkali Frock suit and cotton drapes.

Wrapping Up

The skill of Dabu print is still a safeguarded art of the artisans living in the village of Akola. In primeval India, the practice of this art was not easy, and hard to survive. Nevertheless, the traditional sculpture is revitalized again and endowed with new blueprints. Hopes, that Dabu Print will go further in the future and attain gigantic potential across the world. The print has been practiced for centuries in Rajasthan where it was traditionally used to create fabrics for clothing and home decor. Because this fabric has minor bleeding properties, we recommend hand washing it separately for the first few washes.

JOVI Fashion is a women's cotton kurta online shopping store, that adds a wide range of outfits with classic hand-block print patterns. Our popular patterns include golden block prints, ikat prints, lining patterns, etc. is a beautiful and unique hand block printing technique that has been practiced for centuries in Rajasthan, India. Its use of natural materials and sustainable processes make it an eco-friendly choice, while its durability and timeless beauty make it a wise investment for anyone looking for high-quality and sustainable textiles. If you want to get more information about our ethnic collection, feel free to connect with us: jo@jovifashion.com