The Hand of Fatima, also known as the Hamsa, is an ancient symbol of protection, power, and good fortune, commonly seen in Middle Eastern and North African cultures. Named after Fatima Zahra, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, the symbol represents blessings, strength, and feminine energy. Depicted as an open palm with an eye in the center, it is believed to ward off the evil eye and bring prosperity to its bearer. In Jewish tradition, it is known as the Hand of Miriam, also symbolizing protection and divine blessings. The Hamsa is a widely embraced emblem of harmony and spiritual strength.
Our traditional wooden printing blocks are hand carved by one of our oldest producers, 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;
Hand of Fatima 7 x 5 cm