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Block printing is a relief printing process where a design is carved into a block, typically wood or linoleum, leaving the desired image raised. This raised surface is then inked and pressed onto a material, such as paper or fabric, to transfer the design.12

This technique is ancient, with evidence of its use in India and Egypt dating back centuries. In China, block printing was used for reproducing calligraphy as early as the 2nd century CE. Block books, where both text and illustrations were carved onto wooden blocks, were an early form of this printing, primarily used for religious works.213

While block printing can produce beautiful results, it is often labor-intensive and costly for large-scale commercial use compared to methods like roller or screen printing.2

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