Why We’re Falling Back in Love with Block Printing onto Fabric
Technology is evolving faster than ever, and digital processes now weave through almost every part of our daily lives. AI has made significant strides in fabric design over the past few months, allowing us to create everything from early concept sketches to beautifully detailed pattern ideas with just a handful of simple instructions.
In a world that feels increasingly hurried and digital, there’s something so refreshing about returning to slow, handmade processes like block printing onto fabric. Block-printed fabrics carry a softness and soulfulness that will never be accurately replicated by a machine, with each motif leaving behind the subtle marks of the human hand.
Here’s everything you need to know about block printing onto fabric, so you can bring this charming craft into your own home.
The lasting allure of handmade prints
If you’re a keen sewist, maker, or upholsterer, you’ll know the satisfaction that comes with choosing handcrafted materials. Block-printed fabrics embody slowness, care, and thoughtfulness – bringing a gentle, handmade authenticity to every project you touch.
Block prints are wonderfully versatile. They slip seamlessly into a range of interior design styles; their gentle irregularity adds warmth to more minimalist spaces, and they also bring texture and interest to maximalist rooms, especially when layered with natural linens and woven textiles. The colours are often bold and beautifully saturated, as seen in our Wild Fern two-tone design.
Block-printed fabrics come in a wide variety of forms, from traditional Indian-inspired motifs to gentle geometrics. This breadth of style is what makes them such a joy to work with. They sit as comfortably in period cottages as they do in contemporary homes, blending effortlessly with all other print styles to create an interior that feels both collected and characterful. Whether you’re drawn to bold, confident repeats or prefer more intricate motifs, there’s a block print style to suit your space! More on that below…
A step-by-step guide to how to block print fabric
Wondering how to block print fabric at home? The process is actually much easier than you might think. Here’s our step-by-step guide to block printing onto fabric:
1) Gather your materials
You’ll need a carved block (wood or rubber), though even a simple potato cut in half can work beautifully. Alongside this, gather some fabric-safe ink or paint, a small tray or plate for rolling out the colour, a soft roller or sponge, a piece of natural fabric (cotton or linen), and some scrap fabric for testing. Block printing is a broad term that also includes lino cuts, which you can carve, glue onto a wooden block, and hand‑print just like a traditional carved wooden block.
2) Prepare your fabric
Wash and press your fabric first, removing any dressings or creases that might interfere with the print. Lay it flat on a light padded surface, such as a folded blanket covered with an old sheet, so that the block can press in evenly.
3) Plan your pattern
Decide whether you’d like a simple border, a scattered design, or a neat repeat. Lightly mark out guidelines on the fabric with tailor’s chalk or a disappearing fabric pen to help keep your prints in line.
4) Ink the block
Pour a small amount of ink or paint into your tray and roll or dab it out until it forms a thin, even layer. Press the block into the colour and make sure that the raised areas are coated but not overloaded.
5) Make your first print
Carefully place the block onto the fabric and press it down firmly with the palm of your hands, then lift it straight up to reveal the print. No two impressions will ever be exactly the same, which is part of the charm!
6) Continue the pattern
Re-ink the block and repeat the process across the fabric. You could print in straight lines, offset each row for a softer look, or leave some spaces so that the design can breathe – it all depends what look you want to achieve.
7) Fix and finish
Once you’re happy with the results, allow the fabric to dry completely. Follow the instructions on your ink or paint to set the colour so that your design will last. You might need to fix it with a warm iron from the reverse.
The most important thing in this entire process is to embrace the natural variations in each print. Those little wobbles and irregularities are the hallmark of true block printing, making your finished fabric feel beautifully handmade and unique.
Bring block-printed fabrics into your home
Once you begin experimenting with block printing, you’ll quickly discover how well these beautiful mid and small-scale patterns lend themselves to interior projects. Curtains, cushions, lampshades, table linens, and even reupholstered footstools are all perfect canvases for block-printed fabrics.
We offer a fantastic range of block-printed fabrics that are ideal for sprucing up your furniture and soft furnishings:
- Our Life & Eternity design has a soft, traditional look, with its airy motif echoing the charm of classic hand-blocked prints. It’s especially lovely on bedroom curtains or relaxed scatter cushions.
- Our Wild Fern print is perfect if you’re looking for something quieter and calming. This nature-inspired pattern works beautifully on upholstered sofas, curtains, and cushions without overwhelming the space.
- Our Sunflower pattern brings a touch of sunshine and energy to your interiors. We especially love the Ochre colourway, as it feels as though warmth is being drawn directly into the room.
- Our Simple Ticking Detail stripe pattern balances out these bolder prints. It works especially well on Roman blinds, adding gentle structure and warmth to your room.
Feeling inspired to bring block-printed fabrics into your own home? Browse our full collection of printed fabrics, order your free fabric samples, and start gathering ideas for your next interior project. We can’t wait to see what you make!
FAQs
What is block printing onto fabric?
Block-printed fabrics is a traditional handcraft where a carved block is inked and pressed onto fabric to create a repeating motif. Each impression carries slight variations, giving the finished textile a wonderfully handmade feel.
What fabrics are best for block printing?
Natural fibres such as cotton and linen are best for block printing as they absorb the fabric ink beautifully and offer the right amount of texture for a clear, expressive print. Pre-wash your fabric to ensure the best results.
Can I wash block-printed fabric?
Yes, you can gently wash block-printed fabric once the ink or paint has been properly set (usually with a warm iron on the reverse). Always follow the specific instructions provided with your chosen fabric ink.
How do I use Block-printed fabrics in my home?
Block-printed fabrics are wonderfully versatile. You can use them for curtains, cushions, lampshades, table linens, upholstery projects, and more. Their small to mid-scale motifs make them ideal for layering with other patterns to create rich and characterful interiors.
We sell fabrics exclusively designed by Vanessa Arbuthnott, along side small, bespoke collection of Made to Measure items which includes curtains, blinds, sofas, footstools, chairs, headboards, and quilts, all handmade specially for you by master crafts people.
