Block prints are made for use, not for vitrines. The dyes are natural or azo-free; the cotton is long-staple Karur. Both want movement and water — but on their own terms.
Wash cold, separately, the first time
The first wash carries away the printer's starch and any unfixed pigment. Cold water, no detergent, a clean tub for ten minutes. Drain, rinse, line dry in shade. After that the cover is ready for the regular wardrobe.
"A block print finds its hand in the first three washes. Treat them gently and the cover will be softer at year five than at month one."
Stay out of direct Indian sun
Indian sun bleaches every natural dye. Line-dry in shade or indoors near a window. If you must dry outside, turn the cover inside-out.
Iron on the reverse, low heat
Hand-block printed cotton looks best with a soft press on the reverse, not on the print. A medium iron with a fine cotton steam keeps the print crisp without flattening the weave.
