The block printing studio is my favourite place to be in Jaipur. It lights up my creativity from the moment I hear the steady, rhythmic thump thump of the wooden blocks hitting the cotton. This hand-carved block depicts roses and berries based on a tracing of my pencil drawing of the print.

I was a little taken aback when we first sampled this colour as it comes out far deeper than the final print. But after setting and drying in the sun, the finish is a gloriously soft slate blue.

Once the base colour is applied, the outline of the print is added on top. This second block must be placed with the utmost precision to ensure no overlap of petals and leaves.

For its debut outing, I could think of no better spot than the Writers' Bar at Raffles Jaipur. The room - drenched in blue and intricate murals - captured my heart when we stayed the month the hotel opened last summer.

Raffles hotels are renowned for their historic and literary connections, so this bar joins a long legacy of famed Writers' Bars around the world.


Dress: Temperley London
Plates: Good Earth
Candles: Candle Flair

With thanks to Binny, Sushma and all of the team at Raffles Jaipur.