Batik – The Age-old craft
The age-old unique craft of Batik deals with printing on cloth using molten wax. Although the motifs used on Batik have changed with modern times, the method of printing remains the same. In Java, Indonesia Batik is a part of an ancient tradition and is therefore known for its finest Batik. The word ‘Batik’ originates from the Javanese word which means ‘dot or point.’
Technique
To make Batik, the selected areas of the cloth are blocked out by brushing or drawing hot wax over them and thereafter the cloth is dyed. This process of waxing and dyeing is repeated to create more elaborate and vibrant designs. After the final dyeing process, the wax is removed and the cloth is ready.
Initially, manual labor was used to trace the design on the cloth, but now in modern times, blocks are used for this purpose. Batik printing is largely done using hand blocks in Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. However, in Sri Lanka, the artisans still prefer to trace the design manually.
Earlier, pure cotton cloth and natural dyes made from leaves and plants were used for Batik Printing. Vibrant and bright colours are usually used for Batik Printing. The colour blue which was derived from indigo, orange and red derived from henna, yellow derived from turmeric and black colour was made by burning iron. A combination of two or more colours can be used to make different effects. This elaborate and intricate process of creating a Batik fabric ensures that no two pieces are the same.
Motifs
The Batiks made in Indonesia are mystical and ritualistic. Motifs inspired by nature such as flowers, trees and birds are also used vividly. In India, the Garuda motif is very famous.
There are many variations in the designs. However, motifs are categorized into two types – geometrical and elaborate. The natural elements such as flowers, buds, leaves, birds, fish, butterflies etc come under the category of elaborate motifs.
Chief Centres of Batik Printing
Apart from India, this craft is also practiced in Egypt, Iran, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand and some regions in Africa such as Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali. Cholamandal is South India is well known for Batik Printing. Did you know that the crew of Malaysian airlines wears Batik uniforms? Batik clothes are popular souvenirs in Malaysia.
The best place to shop Batik Print Dress Material Online
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