Handblock printed sarees are more than garments—they are an art form. Each piece carries the legacy of skilled artisans who carve intricate designs onto wooden blocks and imprint them, by hand, onto soft fabrics. The result is a saree that is visually stunning and rich with heritage and story.
Whether you’re drawn to earthy tones, floral motifs, or geometric patterns, blockprint sarees require a gentle, thoughtful approach to care. Preserving the beauty of these handcrafted textiles ensures they remain wardrobe treasures for years to come.
This guide walks you through essential care tips to help keep your printed sarees vibrant, soft, and timeless.
The Craft Behind the Colour: Understanding Handblock Printing
Before diving into care, it’s worth understanding the nature of handblock printing. This centuries-old technique uses natural or pigment dyes pressed through hand-carved wooden blocks. Since the process is manual and often uses plant-based or water-soluble dyes, the colours tend to have a subtle, matte finish and may fade with harsh treatment.
This uniqueness makes blockprint sarees so special—and also why they need delicate handling. Knowing the soul of the saree helps inform how you store, wash, and wear it.
Store it Right
Proper storage is the foundation of saree care. For handblock printed sarees, special attention ensures that the fabric stays fresh and the prints retain their charm.
1. Clean Before You Store
Always make sure your saree is completely clean and dry before storing it. Even invisible stains or moisture can lead to fabric damage over time.
2. Fold and Wrap Gently
Fold the saree along its natural creases and wrap it in a soft muslin or cotton cloth. This allows the fabric to breathe and protects it from dust, humidity, and light exposure—which can dull the print.
3. Avoid Hanging Long-Term
Avoid hanging your printed sarees for extended periods, as this can distort their shape and stress the fabric along the folds. Hanging may also expose them to unnecessary light, fading the dyes faster.
For rotation, unfold and refold the saree differently every few months to avoid permanent creases.
Clean with Care: Washing Techniques for Delicate Prints
Washing handblock-printed sarees requires patience and mindfulness. Skip the harsh detergents and washing machines—they can strip away the subtle hues and break down the fabric’s strength.
- Handwashing is the safest method. Start by gently shaking off dust and immersing the saree in cold water.
- Let the saree soak for 10–15 minutes in mild detergent or reetha (soap nut) water. Lightly swirl with your hands, but avoid rubbing or scrubbing the fabric, especially over printed areas.
- Rinse in cold water until all the soap is gone. Repeat this step once or twice to ensure clarity in colour and softness in texture.
- Never dry handblock sarees in direct sunlight, as it can bleach the dyes. Instead, dry them flat or on a line in a shaded, airy area. Avoid wringing the fabric—gently squeeze out water using a towel instead.
Press with Precision: Ironing and Steaming Tips
Ironing a printed saree the right way helps maintain its structure and enhances the appearance of the prints.
- Always iron the saree when it is slightly damp, or use a steam iron for best results.
- Iron on the reverse side to prevent direct heat from dulling the print.
- For heavy blockprint sarees, consider placing a thin cotton cloth over the area while ironing for added protection.
- Avoid high heat settings, especially with delicate cotton or silk blends.
- A fabric steamer is a great alternative, particularly for block prints on lighter fabrics like mul cotton or chiffon.
Delicate Solutions: Tackling Stains Gently
Stains are inevitable, but with a little caution, you can deal with them without damaging the fabric or fading the print.
- Dab the stain gently with a cotton cloth—don’t rub.
- For food or oil stains, sprinkle talcum powder to absorb excess and then blot with a damp cloth.
- Avoid chemical stain removers or bleach on printed sarees. Instead, use natural options like lemon juice and baking soda paste, tested first on a hidden area.
- It’s always safest to consult a professional who understands traditional textiles for persistent stains.
Preserve the Story: Additional Tips for Long-Lasting Prints
Beyond cleaning and storing, there are a few simple habits that can go a long way in preserving your beloved blockprint sarees.
- Don’t wear the same saree repeatedly in quick succession. Giving it rest between wears helps prevent fabric stress.
- Avoid sprays like perfumes or deodorants, which can stain the fabric and react with dyes.
- Keep printed fabrics away from rough surfaces, as rough seating or accessories can snag the threads.
- Every few months, take your sarees out and let them breathe in the shade. It helps prevent mildew and keeps them smelling fresh.
Final Thoughts
Caring for handblock-printed sarees is an act of reverence. These sarees connect you to the hands that carved, dipped, and stamped them with care and creativity. You preserve a story told in dye and thread with every gentle wash, careful fold, and mindful press.
When looked after with love, printed sarees don’t just last—they grow more beautiful with time, taking on the character of the memories they’ve witnessed. Whether it’s a soft floral blockprint or a bold motif on rich cotton, your saree deserves the same devotion it was made with.
Let every fold remind you: you’re not just wearing a garment—you’re draping a legacy.
