The process that goes into the making of batik is a unique and distinctive one. It varies slightly from country to county as this craft is handed down from generation to generation.
Outlines of images, patterns, and designs are drawn on a fabric, normally using a combination of beeswax and paraffin wax. In some other countries, a flour-and-paste mixture is sometimes used instead of wax. Once this is done, the outlines are filled with different colored dyes. The wax will act as a barrier, which limits the spreading of the dye. The dye will not be able to penetrate the areas in the fabric where the wax has seeped through. When all the colored dyes have been applied, the fabric will be hung or left to dry. When the fabric has dried up, it is dipped in hot water, or a special solvent to remove or dissolve the wax. If the batik artist chooses to, he can do the process over and over again until he or she becomes satisfied with the images on the fabric. Some batik artists choose to remove and re-apply the wax several times over to create intricate patterns and designs.
The incredible creation of batik fabrics makes for beautiful and unique gifts for you, your family and friends. Wall art, the scarf for the woman's outfit, napkins, table cloths and even aprons. The choice is yours.