Ajrak Blockprinters - India Indigo blue, madder red, and a yellow derived from pomegranate rinds characterise the ajrak blockprint. The many shades that arise from multiple dips in the dye bath hold potential for infinite combinations. Initially the ajrak is scoured, beaten, and mordanted to create a receptive foundation free of impurities. The cloth is then printed with a sticky mud, mixed into a paste with mealy wheat and jaggery. The paste forms a resist which gives way to a gentile tonal patterning. The intricate designs demand great focus and commitment. The marvel of a two sided ajrak, with the pattern registered and printed once on the front and reversed on the back, is a testament to the precision and capability of the creative spirit. 
Maiwa actively seeks to support ajrak artisans who live and work in the Kutch desert. We incorporate a large amount of their textiles in our bedding and clothing lines. While we assist in procurement of raw materials, maintaining high standards of quality, and product finishing. design remains the realm of the craftperson.
© Maiwa Handprints Ltd. 2008. |
