Resist Dyed

HANDPRINTED BATIK

Batik painting is an Indonesian technique of resist dyed craft where wax is applied to whole cloth or along specific design. The tradition of batik dyeing 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. Its exact history 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.

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.

THE BATIK PROCESS

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

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.

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