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Craft Name: Block Kalamkari/ Machilipatnam style

Region: Andhra Pradesh & Telangana

CRAFT
HISTORY

Block Kalamkari is one of the two primary Kalamkari traditions of Andhra Pradesh. Originating centuries ago under Golconda Sultanate patronage, Block Kalamkari developed in Machilipatnam as an export craft for Persian, European, and Southeast Asian markets. Artisans used intricately carved wooden blocks dipped in natural dyes to create repeating patterns of florals, creepers, birds, and Persian-inspired motifs. The process involves multiple steps, all done with vegetable-based pigments. During colonial times, Block Kalamkari fabrics became globally popular for furnishings and garments.

WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE:

  • The entire process uses hand-carved wooden blocks
  • Eco-friendly, handcrafted textile
  • Recognised as Pedana Kalamkari GI Tag

Received a
GI tag

COLOURS

  • Natural earthy palette- indigo blue, madder red, black, mustard.

How much time does it take to make a product, and how many artisans are involved in making this craft?
Block Kalamkari takes 10–25 days, involving 3–5 artisans in the process

MOTIFS

  • Floral creepers, Persian-inspired buttas, peacocks, trees of life, borders.

RAW MATERIAL

  • Cotton, khadi fabric
  • Natural dyes: indigo, madder, pomegranate rind, myrobalan
  • Wooden hand blocks
  • Mordants: alum, iron water
  • Printing table & dye vats

CRAFT MAKING PROCESS

Block Kalamkari

HOW TO IDENTIFY GENUINE BLOCK KALAMKARI

  • Visible natural dye irregularities & earthy smell.
  • Back of the fabric shows clear penetration of dye, not a flat surface print.
  • Clear block-repeat structure and traditional floral motifs.