The Difference Between Machine-Printed and Hand Block Printed Quilts

Introduction
Hand Block Printing is a traditional form of art in India, China, and many other East Asian countries. It holds its authenticity in creating beautiful patterns on different fabrics to be used in our day-to-day lives.

Often recognized as “block printing” or “wood block” printing on textile is the art in which hand-carved wooden blocks covered with dye are repeatedly pressed along a length of cloth to create patterns. This dying art is said to be 2000 years old and is a beautiful depiction of culture that encompasses and encourages the dying treasure of handmade textiles.

Because of the high input in labor, time, and efforts, people today are switching over to machine-printing - a modern way of printing textiles through machines. Perhaps, it is a faster method through which manufacturers can meet the changing demands of customers within a less period of time. Also, they can easily manufacture huge amounts of fabrics to cater bulk order requirements.

Among other fabrics, quilts are one of the most popular and prominent types that are high in demand in both hand-printed and machine -printed designs. These Indian print bedspreads are a perfect bedding option that can add both style and warmth to your room.

However, is there any difference between hand-block printed quilts and machine-printed quilts? Do they affect our nature in any manner? The answer is yes! Yet, both the forms of art hold their own advantages and disadvantages.

The Difference Between Machine-Printed and Hand Block Printed Quilts

Machine-printed quilts are created using modern printing techniques that allow for intricate designs and patterns to be printed onto fabric with precision and speed. This makes them more affordable and widely available. These are also typically made with synthetic materials such as polyester, which can be easier to care for and maintain.

On the other hand, hand block printed quilts are made using a traditional printing method that involves carving intricate designs onto wooden blocks, which are then dipped in dye and stamped onto the fabric by hand. This process is time-consuming and requires a high level of skill, making hand block printed quilts more expensive than machine-printed quilts. However, the resulting product is unique and has a charming, handcrafted feel.

In terms of quality, hand block printed quilts are often considered superior to machine-printed quilts due to the attention to detail and craftsmanship involved in their creation. They also tend to use natural materials such as cotton, which can be more breathable and comfortable than synthetic materials. Usually you can see a combination of other traditional forms of art like Kantha to create items like Kantha quilt queen, Embroidered kantha quilts and throws, and more.  

However, machine-printed quilts can offer a wider range of designs and colors, and may be more suitable for those on a budget.

Advantages
In the hand-block printed quilts the main advantage is the craftsmanship itself that is to be admired and treasured. The process of sheer human effort goes into each meter is something to adore and you can cherish them in each fabric, be it a Quilted block print jacket, kantha Indian quilts, or any other form.  

Another main advantage of the process is that it has zero emissions with every roll or garment which is quite important for environmental factors. Also, since the art is time-taking and requires high labor, it enables people skilled in the dying trade to continue their expertise.

On the other hand, digital printing has also transformed itself over the years to a great extent and with governmental control over high emissions, it is slowly adapting to eco-friendly practices. The main benefit of digital printed kantha Indian quilts is the huge reduction in textile waste which leads to landfill and tiny fibers that sweep into our oceans.

However, it has slowly eradicated the manpower involved with the process of handblock printing and has forced the labor involved unemployed. Furthermore, in spite of the fact that people are adopting eco-friendly options as compared to earlier digital printing methods, it still has a hazardous impact on our environment.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between machine-printed and hand block printed quilts will depend on personal preferences, budget, and the desired level of quality and craftsmanship. You can find a variety of Cotton quilts online in India on our website that state traditional forms of craftsmanship in beautiful designs.