Collection: Dabu fabric

Key Features of Dabu Fabric:

1. Dabu Printing Process:

• Mud-resist Technique: The Dabu printing process begins with preparing a resist paste made from locally sourced clay, gum, and lime, sometimes mixed with wheat chaff. This paste is applied to the fabric in intricate patterns using wooden hand-blocks.
• Hand-block Designs: Skilled artisans carve the desired patterns on wooden blocks, which are then dipped in the mud paste and stamped onto the fabric. The parts of the fabric covered by this resist paste do not absorb the dye, creating a beautiful contrast between dyed and un-dyed sections.
• Dyeing: After the resist paste is applied, the fabric is dyed in natural or synthetic dyes, often using indigo, turmeric, or other eco-friendly colors. After dyeing, the fabric is dried, and the resist paste is washed off to reveal the intricate patterns and designs that remain untouched by the dye.
• Multiple Layers: For more complex patterns and multi-colored designs, the process is repeated multiple times, with each new layer of resist paste applied before each round of dyeing.

Types of Dabu Fabric:

1. Cotton Dabu Fabric:

• Most commonly, Dabu printing is done on cotton fabric, which is light, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear, especially in warm climates. Cotton Dabu fabrics are widely used to create sarees, salwar suits, dupattas, kurtas, and other traditional and contemporary clothing.

2. Silk Dabu Fabric:

• Silk fabrics are also used for Dabu printing, though less frequently than cotton. Dabu silk fabric is often used for more luxurious garments like sarees, lehengas, or dupattas, offering a rich, elegant look.

3. Blends and Other Fabrics:

• Besides cotton and silk, Dabu printing can be done on fabric blends, khadi, linen, and even jute, depending on the desired texture and look.

Applications of Dabu Fabric:

Apparel:

Sarees: Dabu sarees, especially those made with natural indigo dye, are highly popular for their artistic appeal and lightweight comfort. The hand-blocked patterns make them a perfect fusion of traditional and modern fashion.
Kurtas & Kurtis: Dabu-printed kurtas and kurtis are widely worn for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Their unique prints and comfortable fabrics make them a staple in ethnic fashion.
Dresses & Tunics: The relaxed, earthy patterns of Dabu fabric are also used in contemporary dresses and tunics, appealing to those who appreciate handcrafted, artisanal fashion.

Home Furnishings:

• Cushion Covers & Pillowcases: Dabu fabric, with its vibrant natural patterns and rustic charm, is often used to create cushion covers and pillowcases that add a touch of ethnic artistry to home decor.
• Bedspreads & Curtains: Dabu-printed bedspreads and curtains bring the essence of handcrafted tradition into the home, making them popular choices for those who enjoy ethnic interiors.

Accessories:

• Bags & Pouches: Dabu fabric is used to make eco-friendly and stylish bags, clutches, and pouches, combining functionality with artisanal craft.
• Stoles & Shawls: Hand-block printed Dabu stoles and shawls add a rustic, ethnic appeal to any outfit, making them popular as versatile accessories.