Discharge printing

[6][7] Vinyl sulfone dyes have emerged as the predominant choice for discharge printing, largely owing to their distinctive chemical composition.

[4] Certain enzymes produced by bacteria can break down azo dyes and reduce methyl red to dimethyl p-phenylenediamine and o-aminobenzoic acid.

[16] One of William Morris's most renowned textile patterns is 'Strawberry Thief', which stands out for its use of the discharge printing technique.

The motif's origin can be traced back to the predation of strawberries by thrushes in the culinary garden of Kelmscott Manor, located in Oxfordshire.

Morris utilized the indigo-discharge printing process to create detailed compositions with well-defined outlines.

In 1884, he introduced two significant designs: 'Wandle', a remarkable repetition measuring 98.4 x 44.5cm, and 'Cray', which marked the completion of his outstanding contributions to the field of printed textiles.

Strawberry Thief, c 1936. Designed by William Morris (British, 1834–1896). Plain weave cotton, discharge printed; overall: 88.3 x 99.1 cm (34 3/4 x 39 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. Henry Chisholm 1937.696 [ 1 ]
White polka dots on red background
'Strawberry Thief', detail view