Block Printing Project Ideas (for fabric & paper)
Thinking about getting into block printing but looking for a little inspiration? You’re in the right spot.
I know I spend a lot more time talking about the actual “making” part of block printing as opposed to the actual application of it, so I thought it would be fun to show you some ways you could actually use your projects IRL (“in real life” for all you non-millennials ;)).
Block printing is an amazing and versatile medium that is great for beginners and experienced artists alike.
If you’re worried about your art skills and are convinced that you can’t draw yourself out of a cardboard box, then block printing is the medium for you!!
I want this post to serve as a major source of inspiration for your upcoming block printing projects. There are a million and one different projects you can block print, and I want you to explore all of your options.
This is by no means a complete list because, in reality, if you can dream it up, you can make it happen, but I wanted to compile all my favorite block printing ideas into one place so you can skim through at your convenience.
Make sure to read to the end because I’ll be sharing a few resources to help you get started on the next steps of your block printing journey.
You’ll also want to be sure and take a read through my Ultimate Guide to Block Printing post that will tell you everything you need to know to make your own fabulous prints!
2 Main Ways to Use Block Printing
In general, there are 2 main ways to block print. Block printing on paper, and block printing on fabric.
Yes, we can get way more technical and get into types of ink and blocks, and I’m sure if you really wanted to you could block print on something other than paper or fabric…but for the sake of simplicity (plus the sheer amount of options already available) let’s just stick to these 2 options.
Each of these methods require slightly different tools and inks, but both offer a ton of variety as far as the end products you can make with either process.
So without further ado, here are some examples of projects that you can create with each type of block printing.
Block Printing Project Ideas for paper
Scrapbooking: Block printing is great for this! Carve and print a few small blocks with some simple patterns to create your own custom paper for your scrapbooking projects. You can even avoid a lot of the mess by using a stamp pad instead of ink (yes, it works!)
Wall Art: Design and block print a single print or series of wall prints using different blocks, or 1 block in 3 multiple colors (less work!). Frame and mount side by side for instant custom artwork that blends in perfectly with the rest of your home decor.
Custom Journal: The perfect personalized gift, or maybe just for yourself…block print some stylized monogrammed initials of the person you’re gifting this to, then watch them freak out when you tell them you made it yourself!
Printed Gift Wrap and Custom Cards: Create mix and match gift wrap and tags to sell online, or color coordinate with your birthday party theme. Even block print hot pink wrapping paper to match your hot pink plastic Christmas tree. Whatever the occasion, this personalized touch won’t go unnoticed.
Wedding Invitations: If you’re taking the wedding DIY approach, block printing is a great way to create your invitations! I hear from lots of brides wanting to design their own invitations, place cards, and other paper accessories for their big day.
Block Printing Project Ideas For Fabric
Block printing and fabric go hand in hand. Whatever you can sew, you can probably print on as long…as the fabric isn’t too fuzzy.
You can incorporate your prints into all kinds of wearable fashion -
a folded clutch
sweatshirts
tote bags
dresses and skirts
boxy crop tops
fabric headbands
t-shirts
baby clothes/onesies
upcycle a worn-in jean jacket
Or you can just print your own fabric to use for sewing projects (print the fabric then sew it into things, as opposed to printing on something that’s already sewn)
You can sell your fabric online or at a craft show, or sew it into things and sell those too. Things like table runners, napkins, fabric gift wrap…there are so many project options!
Block Printing on Readymades
If sewing really doesn’t interest you (raises hand slowly) but you still want to print on fabric and make a functional piece, this next one is for you.
Pre-sewn items aka ‘readymades’ are the perfect answer to quick and easy fabric block printing projects.
You can buy all kinds of readymades including pillow covers, tea towels, curtains, t-shirts, tote bags, aprons, tablecloths, and more.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Block printing for Home decor
Really, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to decorating your home with handmade fabrics. From the walls to the floors, adding a handmade touch to your space will not only make things more beautiful, but more personal.
Keep it simple by buying a pre-sewn curtain panel and stamping it, or get crazy and design a block printed lampshade from scratch (make sure you check flammability requirementson this one!), either way, you have a ton of options here.
Here are some of my favorite ways you can incorporate block printed fabric into your interior design.
1. BLOCK PRINTED WALLPAPER
If you are feeling a little ambitious, creating your own custom wallpaper can be a stunning way to decorate a small space. Just look at what a dramatic effect it has on the room here.
You could easily finish a project like the one above in about a week with one simple, large scale pattern.
2. BLOCK PRINTED SHOWER CURTAIN
For this type of project, I’d recommend a medium to large-sized block and a simple repeat. You can liven things up with different colors, or keep it simple with neutrals.
Be sure to use a waterproof shower liner behind your printed fabric, and set your fabric well.
Add on a little fringed edging for max effect :)
3. FRAMED FABRIC
Another way to use block printed fabric in interior design is to find a great frame and hang it on your wall. Framing can add a clean finishing touch to the contrasting handmade look of the fabric.
Try this with a larger scale piece of fabric in a hallway (a great way to add color and take up large amounts of space!), or use multiple frames and varying fabrics for a more eclectic look.
4. BLOCK PRINTED DISH TOWELS
Dish towels are a great place to add a pop of color and pattern in your kitchen. Bonus, if you’re designing your own dish towels you can match them exactly to the rest of your kitchen decor!
Natural colored flour sack dish towels are great for printing on. They are also very absorbent and make great handmade gifts!
5. BLOCK PRINTED WALL TAPESTRY
A wall tapestry is another way to fill a blank wall with some pattern. Big geometric shapes work really well for this and can become a focal point in a room.
Find an interesting textured fabric (not so fuzzy you can’t print!) or use a bright color to make it even more fun.
6. BLOCK PRINTED THROW PILLOWS
A little pattern thrown into the mix can really take your space a long way.
With just a small stamp and a little bit of fabric, you can create a few throw pillows that not only stand as a conversation piece but add perfectly to your existing decor.
Horrible at sewing like yours truly? Buy a pre-sewn pillow cover, hire a seamstress, or use iron-on sewing tape like stitch-witchery.
7. BLOCK PRINTED BEDDING
Whether you want to print a few pillow shams, or go all in and print all over your sheets and duvet, bedding is a great place to apply block printing for interior design.
Printing on smooth light-colored cotton is ideal for making your prints pop and stand out. However, do consider how often you wash your sheets and expect your prints to fade a little more quickly than commercially bought sheets.
If you’re feeling inspired and you’re ready to start printing asap, here’s what to do next:
First, go find out what blocks and inks are best for the project you have in mind by reading my most popular post here.
Then, sign up for my free online course, Design a Perfect Block Print to start planning out your first design!
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