Our Hand Crafted Block Printed Collection: Where Tradition Meets Coastal Luxe

Hand Crafted Block Print is steeped in centuries of tradition. Using intricately carved wooden blocks, artisans create detailed designs by stamping them onto fabric with precision and care. Each block is hand-carved with remarkable skill, resulting in patterns that are as unique as they are intricate. It’s a process that takes time, patience, and an extraordinary level of craftsmanship, which is exactly why we admire it so much.

During our most recent trip to Jaipur, the vibrant hub of block printing, we had the chance to immerse ourselves in its rich history and techniques. A visit to the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing was a standout moment for us. We spent a wonderful afternoon exploring their archives of stunning garments and vintage advertising posters, each one showcasing the timeless appeal of block-printed designs. It’s incredible how these patterns remain relevant and fresh, even decades later. We couldn’t help but imagine how amazing it would be if they launched a heritage range, bringing these classics back to life.

One particularly unforgettable experience was watching one of their master block carvers at work. This artisan, one of the oldest still practising the craft, carved a delicate flower design for us as we watched in awe. 

Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying block printing ourselves! Let’s just say it’s far harder than it looks. Aligning the patterns with precision while maintaining consistent pressure is no small feat. It gave us a newfound respect for the artisans who make it seem so effortless and further deepened our appreciation for this remarkable craft.

When we designed our own blocks, we wanted to infuse this timeless technique with a touch of Cream Cornwall’s coastal identity. Inspired by the French concept of trompe l’oeil, or “to fool the eye,” our designs resemble traditional block prints from afar. However, on closer inspection, they reveal subtle coastal details that make them uniquely ours.

 The Seashell Flower is one of our signature designs, featuring a trailing pattern where delicate scallop shells replace traditional floral motifs. It’s a clever nod to the sea, blending heritage with our coastal aesthetic. Our other design is the Paisley Shell, a design inspired by classic paisley patterns but with a whelk shell at its centre for an unexpected twist. 

In October 2024, we returned to Jaipur to work closely with our trusted suppliers. Building and maintaining relationships with the artisans who bring our ideas to life is something we deeply value. Despite an unusually challenging monsoon season that delayed fabric processing, the dedication and skill of these artisans never wavered. During our visit, they generously printed panels using our blocks, allowing us to share the intricate process with you. Seeing our designs come to life was so good!

Building on the success of our previous collection, Samudra, we’ve expanded the range to include pyjamas and introduced new colours. The pyjamas, made from the softest cotton voile, are a dream to wear. This fabric softens with every wash, and as the dyes gently fade, the block prints become even more charming.

We’ve also brought back our much-loved reversible quilts, pairing the Seashell Flower and Paisley Shell designs, and have added matching cushions to complete the look. Alongside these, we’ve introduced our popular cosmetic bags, now available in two practical sizes. With waterproof linings and four interior pockets, they’re perfect for storing makeup, skincare, or travel essentials, all while showcasing our stunning block-printed designs.

For those who love loungewear, our lightweight dressing gowns return in five vibrant colours, ideal for mixing and matching with the pyjamas. These pieces, infused with timeless block-print artistry and Cream Cornwall’s coastal charm, are designed to bring both beauty and comfort into your everyday life.

You can read all about our collection here .

For us, block printing is more than just a method of making patterns; it’s a connection to artistry, tradition, and the human touch. It bridges the past and present, weaving the heritage of this ancient craft with our modern coastal designs. Every piece in this collection carries the spirit of Cornwall and Jaipur, brought together through the skill and passion of dedicated artisans.

We hope you’ll love these designs as much as we do. Thank you for joining us on this journey and supporting our vision to blend coastal beauty with timeless craftsmanship.

Rebecca & Allison X