Blouse with hand-printed Model blocks

The printed blouse in cotton with elastane follows every movement and sits perfectly. It was printed in true handwork with traditional Model-print motifs.

Hand printing

A hand-printing technique for textiles has been known since the 18th century. Its basis is the Model, the printing block: a solid length of wood into which the block cutter drives fine brass pins according to the motif. In exacting handwork, the negative of the sought-after motifs is created in this way. Clamping the fabrics correctly, inking the Model carefully and finally placing it on the fabric with precision are what make the skill of a true hand-printing master. A slight offset in the pattern, the so-called Modelzaumstond, proves the authenticity of the hand printing and makes every garment unique. The valuable Model blocks were mostly passed on from generation to generation, yet motifs are lost again and again. Every surviving, unforgotten motif is therefore all the more valuable. Gössl has devoted itself to the singularity of the patterns themselves and digitised them. In this way the old motifs are preserved and can at the same time be shown creatively in new proportions.