Collected on a trip to Rajasthan, India

Elephants are majestic animals symbolizing wisdom, strength, loyalty, and longevity in various cultures around the world. In Hinduism, they are associated with Ganesha, the deity of wisdom and the remover of obstacles, while in Buddhism, they represent mental strength and enlightenment. Elephants’ strong social bonds and protective nature symbolize family unity and loyalty. Their ability to overcome barriers with resilience and calm also makes them symbols of determination and patience. In African cultures, elephants are revered as symbols of leadership and power. Overall, elephants embody stability, intelligence, and the wisdom that comes with experience and mindfulness.

Our traditional wooden printing blocks are hand carved by a very old carver we met in Rajasthan, India. Each one is carved, in the traditional manner with a very small chisel, and as each is hand made each one will be ever so slightly different. The paterns and designs of some of the blocks are extraordinary.

Our wooden blocks are traditionally used in blockprinting fabric, but you can use them to print cards, letters, paper, stationery and even fabric, in the traditional way that craftsmen have been printing in India for centuries.

First, before you start, soak your wood block in a glass of water for a few minutes and dab dry with a cloth – this is important to get the best results. You can use any water-based ink or paint for printing on anything but fabric. Apply your paint, dye or ink lightly to your block with a brush or sponge. Line up the block in the desired position and press down firmly. For printing onto fabric we recommend you use an acrylic fabric paint, then once you have finished printing and the piece is dry, iron on the reverse side to fix the dye.

Always test your printing first on a rough page. To ensure you continue to get the clearest print always wash your block carefully after use.

These blocks measure;

Indian Elephant 5 cm by 3 cm