PATTERNS FOR PRINT BLOCKS
PRINT BLOCKS, PLAIN AND CUT. PRINT SHOWING INFLUENCE OF STICK PRINTING AND BLOCK PRINTING
Besides the method elsewhere referred to, the following will give excellent results in block printing. A large tin cover into which a thick piece of felt is fitted serves as a color pad. Pains should be taken [!-- original location of illustration --] [!-- original location of illustration --] to have the right quantity of dye well spread on the pad. Too much color makes the printing less clear. When a trial on a piece of the goods is right a large number of imprints can then be made. The secret of good work is a nice adjustment of the color pad and then uniformity of pressure on the block, both in taking color from the pad and in making the imprint. The printing is done on a flat surface with a single layer of blotter beneath the textile. Some fabrics take the imprint better if slightly dampened.
The illustration of block printing is a specimen of Hindu work.
The sticks will find continued use in printing connecting spots and for the introduction of additional color so often needed for enrichment.
The manufactured textile here illustrated was designed by using stick printing and block printing.
When the attainment reached with sticks and print blocks is sufficient to call for larger and more varied design, it is time for the craft to broaden and include stenciling.
Stenciling is the most exacting master of simplicity. It teaches one how to sweep away all that is trivial and unnecessary in design. It shows the value of broad, flat tones combined with accurate drawing, and proves conclusively the vital importance of good composition.