Ghalamkar, or Qalamkar, is a traditional Persian textile art form that involves hand-printing intricate patterns on fabric using wooden blocks. The word “Ghalamkar” translates to “pen-work” or “drawing with a pen” in Persian. It is a combination of two words: “Ghalam” meaning pen and “kar” meaning work.

The process of creating Ghalamkar involves several steps. First, a design is drawn on paper or cloth using a pen or brush. The design is then transferred onto a wooden block by skilled craftsmen. These wooden blocks have carved patterns on their surface, representing the desired design. Each block is meticulously carved to create intricate motifs and patterns.

Next, the fabric, usually cotton or silk, is prepared for printing. It is washed, bleached, and dried to ensure it is free of impurities. The wooden blocks are dipped in natural dyes made from plants, flowers, and minerals, and then pressed onto the fabric repetitively. The craftsmen carefully align the blocks to create a continuous pattern across the fabric.