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Batik
Batik or batique is an Indonesian-Malay word and refers to a generic
wax-resist dyeing technique used on fabric. The word originates from
Malay word for dot or point, "titik" and the Javanese word "amba",
meaning ”to write”.
It is found in several countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Iran, and
Thailand but is most popular in Indonesia and Malaysia. The island of
Java in Indonesia is famous for its batik.
Melted wax is applied to cloth before being dipped in dye. Wherever
the wax has seeped through the fabric, the dye will not penetrate.
Sometimes several colors are used, with a series of dyeing, drying and
waxing steps.
Thin wax lines are made with a tjanting needle, wooden handled tool with
a tiny metal cup with a tiny spout, out of which the wax seeps. Other
methods of applying the wax onto the fabric include pouring the liquid
wax, painting the wax on with a brush, and applying the hot wax to
precarved wooden or metal wire block and stamping the fabric.
After the last dyeing, the fabric is hung up to dry. Then it is dipped
in a solvent to dissolve the wax, or ironed between paper towels or
newspapers to absorb the wax and reveal the deep rich colors and the
fine crinkle lines that give batik its character.
The invention of the copper block or cap developed by the Javanese in
the 20th century revolutionised batik production. It became possible to
make high quality designs and intricate patterns much faster than one
could possibly do by hand-painting.
As compared to Indonesian batik, which are mystic-influenced and carry
illustrations of animals and people, Malaysian batik have brighter hues
and more versatile patterns.
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