Our Makers: Sufiyan Khatri

Sufiyan Khatri

A 10TH GENERATION MASTER AJRAKH BLOCKPRINTER

KACHCHH, GUJARAT

Sufiyan Khatri in his atelier of Ajrakh Block Printing

Discover the 4000 year old tradition of Ajrakh Block Printing

We met Sufiyan for the first time in early 2024 and knew instantly that we had to collaborate on a collection of clothing with him. We were blown away by the beauty of the natural colours and intricate patterns, and we have since re-visited our friend again in early 2025 to spark new and exciting projects.

Ajrakh Block Printing is a process of ordered complexity refined through an unbroken generational line of master printers. It is a labor-intensive craft involving up to 16 meticulous steps, each requiring precision and patience.

Each piece goes through multiple stages of washing, printing, dyeing, and boiling, using natual materials such as indigo, madder, pomegranate and henna to produce a large palette of organic shades.

Artisans meticulously carve intricate patterns into teak wood blocks to produce an endless variety of designs and patterns.

The dyeing process involves a unique technique of resisting the fabric with a paste of lime, gum-arabica, and clay, allowing only certain areas to absorb dye. This method is exclusive to Ajrakh and results in the distinctive two-sided designs.

Through his dedication, Sufiyan Khatri has not only preserved a centuries-old tradition but has also adapted it to contemporary aesthetics, ensuring that the art of Ajrakh continues to thrive in the modern world.

We are proud to be building sustianable, long-term relationships with our makers and are so honoured to make Sufiyan's incredible work accessbile to you.