Epicure Trading Napkin | Leila Homewares

The Leila Napkin has been crafted using the process of hand block printing in India. Hand block printing is an ancient textile tradition and has been kept alive in villages throughout Rajasthan. Block printed textiles reflect the touch of human hands, sensibility and skill of the craftsmen; and they represent a heritage craft that if we do not respect and protect may be lost forever.

Each napkin has its own unique characteristics typical of an artisan product. The wood-blocks are hand carved in elaborate designs and each colour is printed with a different block to complete the motif. A high degree of skill is required for both the placement of motifs and the application of pressure. The mark of the artisan is left in the subtle variations from piece to piece, which is one of the most endearing qualities in block print fabric. No piece therefore is identical and small spots and imperfections can occur from the printing process. They are not faults but reminders that these are made by hand, not machine.

The colours used for printing are derived from nontoxic chemical, mineral and vegetable origin. Chemical dyes have replaced vegetable pigments to withstand present day washing and colourfast requirements. 

This napkin measures 50cm x 50cm.