The beauty of the ancient hand block printing practices of Rajasthan lies in the process as well as in the way it connects humans with the environment. Using natural dyes, the mud resist-printing process is done by hand at Dabu Block Print and products are sewn in Sunder Rang Arts and Crafts Centre in Chandelao.

Traditional designs reflect nature in floral, leaf and geometric motifs. Below is the Baboolya design, one of many traditional prints from the region, which is based on the leaves from the hardy desert tree Acadia Arabica India.

In our ongoing project we are working on ways to expand and update the textile designs, including emphasising the storytelling about the native flora of the Thar desert.

By researching, sharing and exchanging knowledge about the local plants, we hope to create awareness about the importance of connecting to the local natural environment amongst everybody involved.