Craft Name: Sanganeri Print
Region: Rajasthan (Sanganer, Jaipur)
CRAFT
HISTORY
Sanganeri printing is a centuries-old hand-block printing tradition that flourished in the town of Sanganer near Jaipur. Emerging around the 16th–17th century, it developed under the patronage of the Jaipur royal court and the trade networks of the Mughal era. Known for its fine lines, delicate florals, and soft colour palette, Sanganeri print became famous across India and beyond for its refined aesthetic.
The craft was shaped by the Chhipa artisan community, who perfected the art of intricate block carving and multi-layer printing using natural and azo-free dyes. Traditionally printed on soft cotton mulmul, Sanganeri textiles were widely used for garments, turbans, household linen, and export textiles.
WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:
- Extremely fine motifs created with hand-carved wooden blocks
- Use of discharge printing and calico printing techniques
- Soft pastel colours with detailed outlines, unmatched by machine or screen prints
- Sun-bleaching process that gives the fabric its signature brightness

Received a
GI tag in 2023
COLOURS
- Soft pastels: pink, red, yellow, blue, green
- Delicate black and red outlines
- Light, sun-bleached tones with clear detailing
MOTIFS
- Florals (lotus, rose, marigold, jasmine)
- Buti and buta patterns
- Jaal (creeper and vine networks)
- Geometric borders and ornamental lines
Time & Artisans Involved:
A Sanganeri piece takes 3–10 days to complete, depending on the number of colours and layers.
The process typically involves 2–5 artisans—block carvers, printers, dyers, washers, and finishers.
RAW MATERIAL
- Carved wooden blocks (floral, buti, jaal patterns)
- Azo-free pigments, natural dyes, or vegetable dyes
- Cotton mulmul, voile, cambric, and other fine fabrics
- Printing paste, gum, and mordants
Sanganeri is internationally appreciated for its delicate craftsmanship, eco-friendly practices, and signature floral elegance.
CRAFT MAKING PROCESS
HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE SANGANERI PRINT:
- Very fine, detailed lines and soft outlines
- Motifs are delicate—not large or heavy
- Pastel shades, sun-washed colours, and clean impressions
- Minor variations in block alignment, showing handwork
- No plasticky or overly bright synthetic look