The History of Batik Printing - Techniques of Batik Art

Batik is a world-known wax-resist printing style, that has its roots in Indonesia. Its simplicity and aesthetic appearance made it famous among global fashion designers and houses. Today, we have brought you a special write-up that will introduce you to Batik printing origin, the  Batik dyeing process,  and different products made out of it. So let’s hop on to the journey with us. 

Image Credit:- Pinterest /Freepik
Image Credit:- Pinterest /Freepik

What is Batik ?

Batik is an Indonesian dyeing technique which uses a wax-resist dyeing technique all over the cloth to create gorgeous patterns and designs. These patterns are mostly done through dots or lines with tools named canting and cap. There are various types of  batik techniques  that are practised throughout the world. This list features Batik Lukis, Tie Dye Batik, Batik Blok, and Tulis. 

batik fabric

Origin & History of Batik 

As per the theories and records, the exact period when this technique was introduced is still unknown. However,  batik block printing  is globally known as the Indonesian dyeing technique that was introduced in the 12th century. On the contrary side, some theories also claim it to have originated in Sri Lanka during the 6th or 7th century. 

Besides Sri Lanka and Indonesia, the Middle East, Thailand, Africa, Malaysia, India, China, and the Philippines also practised this art in the ancient period. The evidence of practising batik in India has been found in  Maharashtra State. During the early 19th century,  Batik print history  witnessed the peak of its popularity.

Image Credit:- Britannica
Image Credit:- Britannica

Process of Batik Printing

This ancient dyeing technique is done by following a certain number of steps.

Step 1: Application of Wax

The first step in the process is to create a design on the fabric and then apply the wax overall cloth. The application should be done as per the pattern in the cloth. For an authentic appearance, you should pick either white or beige cloth. 

Step 2: Dyeing 

Once the designing and waxing are done, you need to start the  batik dyeing process  on the fabric. The part where the wax was applied will appear white after the dye. Majorly, indigo dye is used.

Step 3: The Second Layer of Wax and Dye

 This time wax would cover a bigger area of the cloth. This helps to differentiate the pre-dyed cloth. Again dip the fabric into the dye, thus, the part of the cloth that does not have wax over it will get darker. 

Step 4: Remove The Wax

Now wax will be removed by boiling it. Once you put it in boiling water, all the wax would be scrapped. 

Step 5: Final Layer 

This is done when the artist feels there’s some gap between the design what he thought and what has come out as a result of the process. In this step, the artist put another layer of wax to eliminate all the minor gaps. 

Step 6: Eliminating Errors

Again dip the fabric into the dye and boil the cloth to rinse off the wax from the fabric. 

Step 7: Ultimate Beauty 

After removing all the wax, you will have a final product - the beauty of the  batik printing

batik fabric

Different Products Made With Batik Block Printing

Apart from the clothing,  Batik print design  is also globally used in upholstery, home decor, bedding and many more ways. Here are some of the  Batik dye  products you can explore at iTokri. 

Batik Printed Kurta 

Our  batik-printed  kurta levels up your beauty game with authentic handmade work. A set of dupattas, palazzos and kurtas would complete a chic piece. 

Batik Printed Bedcover 

Batik does not only add charm to your appearance but also can make your room aesthetic. Batik print bedcovers at iTokri come in a vibrant print and colour that would give you a refreshing vibe.

Batik Printed Bags

Another product of  batik print  that you should include in your handmade product collection is the batik printed bag. These bags are made of natural fabric like cotton and the entire  batik block printing  is done by a local artist. You can carry it with casuals for your day outing. 

Saree 

Your wardrobe is incomplete without adding a batik-printed saree. The sarees with  batik printing  rule the hearts of women as the graceful work of the saree fits every occasion regardless of season, weather and age. 

batik-printed saree

Dress Material

From blouses to suits, this batik-printed dress material can be used to create any kind of outfit that you love to wear. At iTokri, you will get a large variety of batik-printed dress materials with different base fabrics.

Without debate,  batik printing,  an Indonesian ancient art is eye-catching and sophisticated and could enhance the beauty of any fabric. From home decor to wardrobe collection,  batik printing design  fits everything. However, due to the large number of options available in the market, it is quite confusing to identify authentic and real work. But at iTokri you will get the trust of authentic handmade work with high-quality fabric. The wide collection of scarves, kurta, sarees, and much more would give you endless choice that suits your interest and preferences. 

FAQs 

Who introduced the art of batik first?

The person who initially practised this art is unknown. But as per the historians, batik printing was introduced in Java, Indonesia in the 12th century. 

What is the oldest form of batik?

The oldest form of  batik printing  is tulis. Under this art, wax is written throughout the fabric. It includes the washing, kneading and drying of fabric. Further, a paste of rice is also applied to the wax to prevent it from getting scared off. 

What are the two main types of batik?

Presently, the world practises two major types of  batik print design - bock printing and handpainted printing. Both  batik printing  differs from each other on the basis of designs, motifs and tools used. 

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