Indigo Dyeing

Our Crafts

Indigo

Indigo dye itself carries a significant cultural and historical legacy. It was considered a sacred color in many societies, symbolizing purity, wisdom, and connection to the natural world. Indigo block printing is a centuries-old textile art form that marries the bold beauty of indigo dye with the precision of hand-carved wooden blocks.

A bit about history

Indigo block printing originated centuries ago in regions such as Rajasthan, India, where it became a revered craft deeply intertwined with cultural heritage. This technique combined the ancient use of natural indigo dye, derived from the indigofera plant, with the artistry of hand-carved wooden blocks.

Traditionally, these blocks featured intricate motifs inspired by nature, folklore, and geometry, reflecting the rich tapestry of local traditions. Indigo block printing evolved as both an artistic expression and a functional craft, producing textiles that carried vibrant, enduring patterns while showcasing the skill and creativity of artisans who passed their knowledge down through generations.

A bit about the technique

Indigo block printing is a meticulous process that combines the art of carving and dyeing. Wooden blocks are intricately hand-carved with designs, then dipped into a resist paste, typically made of clay, lime, and gum. The blocks are firmly pressed onto fabric, transferring the resist pattern. The fabric is then submerged in a natural indigo dye vat, where the exposed areas absorb the dye, while the resisted sections remain untouched.

After dyeing, the resist is washed off to reveal the pattern in contrast to the indigo-dyed background, resulting in vibrant, intricate designs that highlight the harmony between craftsmanship and nature.

Indigo Dye has been used in the following collections

Our Crafts

In these changing times, it is important to remember that no project makes sense if it doesn’t create some kind of sustainable network that closely safeguards all the people involved and its environmental impact along the production process. Kozii invites you to learn more about the techniques applied to our productions.