More

Resist Dyed

HANDPRINTED BATIK

Batik painting is an Indonesian technique of resist wax print fabrics where wax is applied to a whole cloth or along a specific design. The tradition of batik print fabric is found in various countries. It is believed that the term is a derivation from the word `Ambatik’ which when translated literally stands for a piece of cloth with small dots or writing with wax or drawing in broken lines.

ORIGIN & THE HISTORY OF BATIK

Batik dyeing is an ancient wax resist dyed fabric tradition of Java, Indonesia. The exact history of Batik is uncertain, G. P. Rouffaer argues that the technique might have been introduced during the 6th or 7th century from India or Sri Lanka. On the other hand, the Dutch archaeologist J.L.A. Brandes and the Indonesian archaeologist F.A. Sutjipto believe Indonesian batik is a native tradition. The existence of the oldest Batik activities came from Ponorogo which was still called Wengker before the 7th century.

In Indonesia, batik has various meanings such as love, wedding dress, marriage ceremony, blessing etc. Some of the most popular Batik motifs are Parang (Bamboo), Kawung (Palm Leaf), Sekar Jagad (Starched Waterfall), Truntum (Flowering Tree) and Tambal (Plantain).

INTRODUCTION TO BATIK DESIGN

To make a traditional batik design, the pattern is hand-drawn with hot wax on prepared fabric, using special tools called canting. This batik technique is called batik tulis. Batik Material is very important to Indonesians and many people wear it to formal or casual events. But besides that Batik cap & Batik lukis are also recognised as Batik techniques as they too use wax for resist dyeing. The wax is used to cover the areas which are to be protected from the dye. Traditionally, batik dyes were made from plants. The most widely used was indigo blue and soga, a warm brown colour made from the bark of the Soga tree. Meanwhile, a combination of two types of wax is used in this craft- Beeswax, Paraffin wax which acts as the resist. The ratio of both waxes determines the Batik texture produced.

BATIK MOTIFS

The motifs and patterns used in batik are usually inspired by nature, such as flowers, plants and animals. However, there are also other motifs that have been created by artists over time.

In recent years, many new designs have emerged through experimentation with color, style and composition. This has led to a diversification of design within the tradition of batik, which can now be seen in new forms such as paintings on canvas or wood panels. We work with artisans in Bengal who have express their own perspective through this craft now.


THE BATIK PROCESS

At Anuprerna, we create the unique and abstract pattern by covering the complete fabric surface in wax and once cold, scrunch it slightly to create cracks. This is then dyed in the dark shade and treated in hot water to remove the wax. Once this is done, the fabric is dyed in the lighter base colour.

Another way we create Batik Design is by using a brush to paint the wax onto the fabric in the desired design. Then it is dyed, followed by washing in hot water. The result is the design remaining uncoloured over the dyed base. Depending on the design, the fabric may be dyed 1st and then painted with wax.


Due to the nature of this process, there is no right or wrong face of a Batik printed fabric. Both sides of the fabric are equally vibrant as the hot wax applied resists the dye equally on both faces. Thus, the easiest way to identify an authentic Batik is to check if the fabric looks the same on both sides. 


APPLICATION OF BATIK PRINT DESIGN IN PRESENT DAY

Contemporary batik, while owing much to the past, is markedly different from the more traditional and formal styles. For example, the artist may use etching, discharge dyeing, stencils, different tools for waxing and dyeing, wax recipes with different resist values and work with silk, cotton, wool, leather, paper or even wood and ceramics.

Its present day applications of Batik Fabrics can be found in sarees, kimono shrugs, blouses, shirts, dresses and other accessories.

Batik painting is historically the most expressive and subtle of the resist methods. The ever-widening range of techniques available offers the artist the opportunity to explore a unique process in a flexible and exciting way.


Team Anuprerna

Team Anuprerna

At Anuprerna, We request everyone to contribute and share. This way we can create global recognition for these beautiful handwoven crafts & textiles to bestow value onto the ordinary lives of our artisans with extraordinary skills. And we believe that's the only way we can build a sustainable and ethical world for ourselves.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE




HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT BROWN YELLOW BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC ABSTRACT BROWN YELLOW BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC
SAK0250009
INR 945
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT RED YELLOW BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC ABSTRACT RED YELLOW BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC
SAK0250008
INR 945
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT ORANGE BLACK BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC ABSTRACT ORANGE BLACK BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC
SAK0250016
INR 945
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT GREY BATIK COTTON MULBERRY SILK BLEND FABRIC ABSTRACT GREY BATIK COTTON MULBERRY SILK BLEND FABRIC
SKU1020013
INR 743
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT BROWN CREME BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC ABSTRACT BROWN CREME BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC
SAK0250007
INR 945
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT BLACK RED BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC ABSTRACT BLACK RED BATIK MULBERRY SILK FABRIC
SAK0250005
INR 945
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT BLUE GREY BATIK COTTON FABRIC - HAND PRINTED ABSTRACT BLUE GREY BATIK COTTON FABRIC - HAND PRINTED
CAK0790001
INR 398
HANDPRINTED
ABSTRACT GREY MAROON BATIK COTTON FABRIC - HAND PRINTED ABSTRACT GREY MAROON BATIK COTTON FABRIC - HAND PRINTED
CAK0790002
INR 398

Related Articles