JAIPUR, INDIA

The Textiles of Jaipur

Block Printing, Indigo, Applique & Resist Printing

October 20 - 28, 2024

Jaipur, steeped in history, boasts magnificent forts, opulent palaces, and intricately designed temples, reflecting the grandeur of Rajasthan's royal past. It is also renowned for its bustling market streets filled with vibrant textiles, exquisite handicrafts, traditional Rajasthani clothing and jewelry. Join us this October as we explore the textiles of Jaipur and take a deeper look at the processes, artisans and makers behind the scenes.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of textile techniques such as the traditional Indian hand craft of wood block printing with natural dyes, resist printing (also known as dabu), applique stitching, natural dyeing and more with master artisans. You’ll learn the process of carving your own wood block design which you can then print with during your workshop sessions.

You will also have some time to explore on your own or with others from your group, to shop or visit cultural sites that interest you. There is SO much to discover in and around Jaipur.

Full Trip Itinerary below. This workshop is open to all creatives beginner to advanced.

DATES

9 Days, 8 Nights - October 20 - 28, 2024

PRICE

[SOLD OUT] Shared Room

[SOLD OUT] Private Room

This Ace Camp is currently SOLD OUT, you can register for the WAITLIST below for priority notification should a place become available

 

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

  • Traditional Block Printing Workshop in Bagru taught by local artisans

  • Mud Resist Indigo Workshop

  • Guided Applique stitching workshop

  • Natural Dyeing workshop

  • Wood Block Carving workshop

  • Visit to the Block Printing Museum

  • Jaipur Airport Transfers (on specified days)

 
 

Learn with Local Artisans

The traditional crafts of wood block + dabu printing are anciently beautiful but arduous in production. The artisans are most often taught by family and work much the same as the generations before them, going back at least 400 years, printing on long tables covered in cotton. Block prints are aligned by eye, and telltale signs of the human hand, such as drips + printing imperfections, are part of the beauty of the craft.

We will be visiting Indian block-printing studios to work hands-on and learn about natural dyeing, dabu printing and wood block printing. Wabisabi Project explores and harvests these gifts in the hand block printing tradition using only natural dyes. Their mission is to inspire consumers to value and appreciate the genuineness of collective discoveries, as manifested in our products.

You will also be learning with artisans from Nila House. The Nila organisation sits at the intersection of craft, design, sustainability and community empowerment. A ground-breaking non-profit initiative, Nila is unique worldwide in its scope, encompassing all stages of the Indian craft value chain. Thoughtfully envisioned, innovative in method and sensitive in execution, the foundation addresses the core needs required for the survival of a progressive, thriving craft industry in today’s global economy.

 
 

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival & Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Jaipur, India! Airport arrivals will be picked up at the airport. Settle into your hotel room and relax before you meet the group for dinner.

This evening we have a meet + greet welcome dinner.

Day 2

An Introduction To Traditional Wood Block Carving

Today we will collaborate with a block carver from the Kharaudi community, a traditional community working with wood. They are one of the few remaining families fully dedicated to the craft for the past seven generations. The block carving workshop will be conducted at their humble workshop in Jaipur.

It is a craft that is practiced sitting on the floor. Each participant will be given a station (with a bit of legroom), where they will carve their own design. You should be comfortable sitting on the floor for an extended period of time.

Group Dinner this evening

Day 3

An Introduction To Traditional Wood Block Printing

Our day begins with introduction and orientation of the workshop and knowledge about the different type of vegetable dyes which are used in printing. You will learn the traditional printing process so that you can understand their technique before starting your own block printing using traditional alum and iron inks. You’ll be able to use the wood block you hand carved the day before to create a custom design.

Dinner this evening is free time to explore on your own or with others from the group

Day 4

Morning Bagru Walking Tour + Afternoon Mud Resist Block Printing

This morning we visit Bagru town for a slow walking tour into the living world of a craft practicing village. Meet with locals and learn their stories of connecting people, environment and craft through culture.

After lunch you will be back in the block printing studio to learn about mud resist block printing and an introduction to indigo dyeing. Also known as Dabu, this intricate process involves using a combination of mud (clay), natural dyes, and hand-carved wooden blocks to create layered patterns on fabric. You’ll also have the chance to work with madder dyeing pieces you printed the day before.

Dinner this evening is free time to explore on your own or with others from the group

Day 5

Natural Dyeing with Indigo + Pomegranate + Block Printing

We return to Bagru for another day in the workshop. You’ll have time to complete your block printing pieces before we move into a natural dyeing course where you will work pomegranate, kassis, iron and indigo. You’ll learn about washing and finishing fabrics and see your whole collection come to life.

Dinner this evening is free time to explore on your own or with others from the group

Day 6

Applique Stitching Workshop | Photo: Nila House

Today you will have an immersive workshop learning applique and its regional nuances from expert artisans. The word ‘applique’ stems from the French and Latin root words ‘appliquer’ and ‘applicare’ which mean “to join”. Textile fragments are hand-stitched to a base fabric to create a strong and beautiful applique textile. The layered patterns create textural contrasts and light-play on the surface. Like many textile crafts, applique has its origins in the practice of repair, with fabric scraps being creatively used to strengthen an old, well-loved textile.

For this workshop, we will be joined by artisans from the desert region of Barmer, Rajasthan. The artisans belong to a community who migrated to India from Pakistan in the 1970s, bringing with them a tradition of applique particular to the region. With support from Rangsutra, they have found a dignified and secure livelihood through the strength of their craft.

Group dinner this evening will be at a private family home, sampling all kinds of home-cooked recipes.

Day 7

Eco-Printing & Anokhi Block Printing Museum in Amer

This morning we return to Nila House where we will work with a local artisan who will teach you how to use flowers to print on fabric and paper.

After lunch we visit the village of Amer and the famous Anokhi Block Printing Museum. The museum provides insight into the history and evolution of hand block printing in India, and showcases a wide range of block printed textiles, garments, and artifacts created using different printing techniques and motifs used in traditional Rajasthani textiles.

Dinner this evening is free time to explore on your own or with others from the group

Day 8

Free Day & Final Group Dinner

Today is a free day for you to explore Jaipur on your own or with others from your group, there are plenty of things to do and see (and shop for!) such as a day trip to the Amber Fort or the stunning Jaipur Palace. We’ll provide you with an insider’s map of our favourite shops and restaurants.

Final group dinner this evening to celebrate our week together.

Day 9

Departure Day

This morning we check out of hotel and say our final goodbyes as we head out on our own journeys. Thank you for joining us in the fascinating Pink City of Jaipur!

Airport Drop offs will be arranged after final travel arrangements have been sent to Ace Camps.

Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, new opportunities, and the desires of the group.

 

Where We’re Staying

Built in the 18th century by His Highness Madho Singh Ji of Jaipur, The Royal Heritage Haveli opens its doors after 250 years as a boutique hotel. Now owned by Maharaj Jai Singh of Jaipur, the Royal Heritage Haveli is run by his niece Angelique and her husband Pradip.  

Known for their warm hospitality, Angelique and Pradip give each guest a personalised and truthful taste of the bygone era of the Maharaja’s way of life. An ethereal destination, the Royal Heritage Haveli is complete with rambling lawns, serene courtyards, plush interiors and stately living areas.

 
 

ROOMING OPTIONS

Please read below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page

Group Size: Minimum 8 guests and maximum 14 guests. All Prices are in USD.

This Ace Camp is currently SOLD OUT, you can register for the WAITLIST below for priority notification should a place become available

 
 

Important Trip Notes + Details

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?

This trip is for open minded and patient travelers - things can move a little slower here and be completely chaotic at the same time.

You should be eager to learn and work hands-on with a local community of skilled artisans and curious about regional culture and cuisine.

This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.

India can be overwhelming for the first time traveler. It is not for the fearful traveler nor for the person who is not open to cultures, plans delayed, or a schedule which may go completely and utterly wacky. Participants in this Ace Camp should not be weary travellers. In a country of one billion-strong-and-growing, you may feel disoriented and overwhelmed, but that's part of the experience and fun.

If you prefer a journey free of hassle and without being hectic - this may not be the Ace Camp for you.

CULINARY NOTES

We are unable to cater to any specific dietary issues or preferences on this trip.

Dishes are often prepared with garlic, onions, yogurt and milk used to temper spices. All included meals will have vegetarian options.

Please contact us before registering if you have any questions.

WEATHER

October is a nice time of year to travel to Jaipur. The main rainy season has past and the skies should be mostly clear. The average temperature in October is 33°C(92°F), while the average low is 20°C (68°F).

ACCESSIBILITY

Excursions may include navigating uneven terrain such as hilly and a gravel/rough trail. The hotel and workshop spaces have stairs (no elevators).

During our wood block carving workshop you will be sitting on the floor for an extended period of time. Please ensure you are comfortable with these conditions.

THIS ACE CAMP INCLUDES

Eight nights accommodation; Hands-on workshops led by local artisans, transport during workshop, tours and included meals; Workshop supplies; Jaipur Airport transfers on specified days; eight breakfasts, six lunches and four dinners.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

International roundtrip airfare; Personal Travel Insurance: We require all participants to have personal travel insurance that at minimum covers medical emergencies and cancellations; Alcoholic Drinks; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, expenses during free time; laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary.

WHERE DOES THIS TRIP START + FINISH?

This trip begins and ends in Jaipur, India.

TRAVEL HEALTH

Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel. (side note:  If you have any pending health concerns you should contact your health care provider prior to registration of this Ace Camp)

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Ace Camps will email you when it is time to make your travel arrangements. This email will be sent 90 days or more before your trip departs unless you book within 90 prior to the camp. We will also be sending you an Ace Camps Travel preparation document prior to your trip. It will include a detailed itinerary, arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information and more.

ACE CAMPS TOUR MANAGER

An Ace Camps Tour Manager is a part of your group and is there to look out for your safety, to help resolve issues, and to make sure you get what you want from your trip. Your Tour Manager is not a local guide but will work with all local vendors and partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration.

BOOKING TERMS + CANCELLATION POLICY

PLEASE NOTE THE CANCELLATION TERMS FOR THIS TRIP ARE DIFFERENT TO OUR NORMAL CANCELLATION POLICY.

You may cancel on or before June 22, 2024 and receive a full refund minus a $1000 USD per-person admin fee. If you cancel on or after June 23, 2024 there is a 100% cancellation fee and all funds paid are non-refundable. Bookings are non-transferable unless a replacement traveler is secured.

All guests who register must agree to our Booking Terms + Cancellation Policy.

COVID DISCLAIMER

HEALTH + SAFETY DISCLAIMER - including COVID

Please read our Health and Safety procedures in our FAQ’s.

While we strive to deliver all aspects of the included itinerary and specific accommodation, due to challenges some vendors may be facing, certain aspects of your Ace Camps Travel trip may be changed according to the situation beyond our control. In the small chance this does occur, we will work to offer comparable accommodations and/or activities when possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Individuals will be responsible for ensuring they are able to travel to the destination selected. Countries have various Covid-19 related entry requirements including but not limited to: providing proof you are fully vaccinated, taking a test before entry and after entry etc. You should be prepared to meet all necessary entry requirements. This may also include wearing masks in all public settings.

Ace Camps Travel, LLC. will not be responsible for refunding any lost trip funds if you have to miss your scheduled trip as you cannot meet the requirements determined by Ace Camps Travel, LLC. and the country you are visiting.

QUESTIONS + FAQ’S

If you have any further questions about this Ace Camp please feel free to contact us.

You can also read more FAQ’s here.