A complex, 16-step block printing tradition originating from the Khatri community. Known for its highly intricate geometric and floral patterns, it relies almost entirely on deep indigo blues and madder root reds. Authentic Ajrakh is printed on both sides of the fabric.

Explore SA Fab's collection of authentic Ajrakh Fabrics.

While both are famous block printing hubs in Rajasthan, they are distinct. Bagru prints traditionally use natural dyes on dark, earthy backgrounds (like red, black, or indigo). Sanganeri prints, originating nearby, are famous for delicate, fine floral motifs printed on pure white backgrounds.

A traditional ethnic fabric characterized by its sheer texture, light weight, and luxurious drape. Woven by interlacing silk and zari in the traditional cotton yarn, it is a perfect canvas for festive block-printed garments.

Discover our elegant Chanderi Suit Sets.

The generational community of block-printing artisans in Rajasthan. The word originates from the Hindi/Gujarati word meaning "to print" or "to stamp." For centuries, Chhipa families in Bagru have passed down the secrets of natural dyeing and wooden block carving.

An ancient mud-resist handblock printing technique native to Bagru. Artisans stamp a special mud paste (the 'dabu') onto the fabric. When dipped in natural dyes like indigo, the mud resists the dye, leaving beautiful, un-dyed patterns.

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A natural plum extract used universally in Bagru printing as a "mordant" (a fixative). Fabric is washed in a Harda solution before printing; this creates a pale yellow base that allows natural dyes to bind permanently to the cotton fibers, ensuring vibrant colorfastness.

A pure, rich blue dye extracted from the leaves of the Indigofera tinctoria plant. Fabrics are repeatedly dipped in deep, cold indigo vats to achieve vibrant, lasting blue hues without the use of toxic synthetic chemicals.

See the vibrant blues in our Indigo Fabric collection.

A traditional, naturally derived iron-rust solution used by Bagru artisans. When stamped and processed, Kashish yields beautiful, earthy grey and brown tones, providing the signature muted contrast often seen alongside vibrant reds and indigos.

A distinctive Rajasthani fabric famous for its woven square (khat) patterns. It is incredibly lightweight, sheer, and breathable, making it an ideal summer fabric when adorned with traditional block prints.

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The natural, botanical source of the deep, rich reds seen in traditional Bagru and Ajrakh prints. Extracted from the roots of the Rubia plant, it has been used for centuries to create colorfast, highly vibrant reds without synthetic chemicals.

A highly sustainable, incredibly soft cellulose fiber blended with silk. It is famous for its fluid drape and slight sheen, making it the ultimate premium pairing for heavy, intricate block prints like Ajrakh.

Discover the luxury of Modal Silk Suit Pieces.

The fast-fashion, synthetic alternative to block printing. Machine pigment printing uses chemical dyes rolled rapidly over fabric. Unlike authentic natural dyes that penetrate the fiber, pigment prints sit on top of the fabric, often feeling stiff and lacking the "alive" texture of human-stamped craft.

The broad umbrella term for ancient techniques (which includes Dabu, Ikat, and Tie-Dye) where specific parts of a fabric are blocked (or "resisted") from absorbing dye. The contrast between the dyed and un-dyed sections creates the pattern.

The traditional sun-drying process essential to Bagru block printing. After washing and dyeing, the textiles are laid out in the open sun. The intense Rajasthani sunlight chemically bakes the natural dyes into the cotton fibers, ensuring absolute colorfastness.

The traditional and most recognizable color combination of authentic Bagru prints. It involves stamping a deep, rich black (Syahi) made from fermented iron rust, alongside a deep red (Begar) extracted from madder roots, typically stamped on an off-white cotton background.