About — Thali & Tuk

Thali & Tuk is based in Oxford, UK and celebrates the joy of block printing. Born on a backpacking trip across Rajasthan, we create block printed clothing and host block printing workshops to spotlight this traditional craft.

All items are designed and sewn in Oxford, UK. We use natural dyes that are hand printed onto organic or cambric cotton in India. All packaging is plastic free.

Block printing workshops are hosted in Oxford, UK but mobile events can be booked for groups by submitting a request here.

Thali > a platter used to serve small portions of delicious Indian food
Tuk > India’s top choice of transport - Tuk Tuk’s!

Block Printing

The traditional art of block printing has been practiced in India for more than 500 years. There are now various cities and towns across India where chippa communities reside, all with distinct block printing styles.

Block printing is the technique of pressing and stamping fabric with carved wooden blocks. Each design and layer of colour requires a different block, all of which are carved by hand with a chisel. The block is then pressed into coloured dye before transferring to the fabric, which results in pieces which are truly original. It’s a slow process - one which demands an exceptional degree of craftsmanship and is the antithesis to mass-produced, high volume fabric production.

Natural Dyes

Natural dyes are kinder to skin, protect our environment and offer unique characteristics to the colour of the fabric. Basic sources of natural & vegetable dyes are parts of plants (such as leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, barks & roots) and minerals (such as Prussian blue, red ochre and ultramarine blue). Due to the natural production methods, colour transfer may occur when washing items for the first few times. This is completely normal and will stop after a few washes.