Fair Trade & artisan-made in India

Designed in the United States

Hand block printed on kora cotton — unbleached, unprocessed, and naturally off-white

Made using low-impact, azo-free dyes, applied color by color

Contemporary geometric motifs created through traditional hand block printing

Highly absorbent, durable, and reusable — a refined alternative to disposable paper napkins

Machine washable for easy, everyday use

Crafted by artisan families in South India, many with deep roots in hand block printing

Gift-ready set of four, thoughtfully packaged with a belly band and hanger sharing details about the artisans and techniques

Ideal for hostess gifts, housewarmings, weddings, Mother’s Day, Thanksgiving, holidays, and seasonal gifting

MATERIAL & CARE

Material: 100% kora cotton (unprocessed, unbleached)
Size: 16" × 16"
Set: 4 napkins
Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle; tumble dry low

These hand block printed napkins are made from kora cotton, an unbleached and unprocessed form of cotton that retains its natural off-white tone and avoids the heavy chemical treatments associated with conventional bleaching. The subtle warmth of the fabric provides a beautiful base for layered, contemporary prints.

Each napkin features geometric motifs created through a multi-step, color-by-color printing process. Once a specific color and block are printed, the fabric must dry completely before the next layer can be applied. This slow, deliberate method means every piece carries dozens — sometimes hundreds — of careful hand-stamped impressions, resulting in rich visual depth and authentic character.

Produced by skilled artisans in South India, this work supports meaningful livelihoods for families who have returned to heritage craft after migrating to urban areas in search of stable employment. The result is a thoughtfully made textile that balances modern design with enduring craftsmanship.

These napkins are created through a Fair Trade hand block printing initiative in South India, working with artisan families who come from communities historically connected to this craft. After periods of migration away from their villages for economic reasons, artisans are able to reconnect with block printing in an environment that values skill, patience, and artistic integrity.

Artisans begin by carving intricate designs into wooden blocks. Dye is applied evenly to the block, which is then stamped firmly onto the fabric. Each color requires its own block and printing stage, with drying time between layers to ensure clarity and consistency. This meticulous, time-intensive process preserves the integrity of hand block printing while adapting it for contemporary patterns and palettes.

Through this work, artisans receive fair wages, stable employment, and respect for their expertise — helping keep this heritage craft alive while supporting artisan families with dignified, reliable income.