India has always been known for its rich textile traditions, and among them, the Sanganeri handblock print holds a very special place. Originating from Sanganer, a small town near Jaipur in Rajasthan, this centuries-old craft is loved for its elegance, delicate floral motifs, and the sheer hard work of artisans who bring it to life.
Today, however, with machine-printed replicas flooding the market, buyers often get confused between genuine handblock prints and cheap imitations. If you also love block-printed fabrics and want to make sure that you are buying the real one, here are a few simple ways to identify authentic Sanganeri handblock prints.
1. Small Imperfections are a Good Sign
Unlike machine prints that look too neat and uniform, handblock prints always carry a human touch. You may notice tiny variations in spacing, light smudges, or slight differences in the same motif. These little irregularities are not flaws — they are proof that the fabric is handcrafte
2. Natural and Soft Colours
Traditional Sanganeri printing makes use of natural and eco-friendly dyes. The shades are usually soft, soothing, and slightly muted. If the fabric looks too shiny, harsh, or has overly bright colours, it is likely machine printed.
3. Delicate Floral Patterns
Sanganeri prints are famous for their fine floral designs, leafy vines, and motifs inspired by nature such as lotus, rose, sunflower, and sometimes even birds. The prints usually look very detailed and graceful, unlike mass-produced patterns that often appear flat or repetitive.
4. Pure Cotton or Silk Base
Authentic Sanganeri printing is generally done on pure cotton, voile, or silk. The fabric feels soft, breathable, and comfortable against the skin. Synthetic or polyester bases are mostly used for cheaper imitations.
5. The Back Side Tells a Lot
Turn the fabric over. In real handblock prints, you will notice that the colour slightly seeps through to the reverse side, though in a lighter tone. In machine prints, the colour mostly sits only on the surface, leaving the back almost plain.
6. Visible Block Marks
If you look closely, you might see tiny overlaps or marks where two wooden blocks meet during printing. These are the fingerprints of the artisan’s work and are clear signs of authenticity.
7. Buy from Trusted Sellers
The easiest way to ensure you are getting genuine Sanganeri prints is to buy from trusted sources. Look for brands that are transparent about their artisans, processes, and materials. At Julu Fabrics, we work closely with craftspeople in Rajasthan to bring you only 100% authentic handblock prints that carry tradition, comfort, and style.
Final Thoughts
Owning a piece of Sanganeri fabric is not just about fashion — it is about celebrating India’s cultural heritage. Each motif reflects patience, skill, and generations of knowledge. Next time you shop for block prints, remember these tips and bring home textiles that are truly authentic.
✨ Explore our collection of authentic Sanganeri handblock prints at Julu Fabrics and add a touch of Rajasthan’s artistry to your wardrobe.
