Batik is an art form that involves applying wax to fabric to resist dyes and create intricate patterns and designs. The process originated in Java, Indonesia, where hot wax is used to block off areas of cloth before dyeing it with multiple colors. By carefully waxing and dyeing the fabric, complex patterns can be built up layer by layer. Once complete, the wax is removed to reveal the finished batik fabric with its colorful designs.

1. Batik is both an art and a craft and is becoming more popular and well known in the west as a wonderfully creative medium. The art of decorating cloth in this way, using wax and dye, has been practiced for centuries. In Java, Indonesia, batik is part of an ancient tradition, and some of the finest batik cloth in the world is still made there. The word batik originates from the Javanese tik and means to dot. Batik

2. To make a batik, selected areas of the cloth are blocked out by brushing or drawing hot wax over them, and the cloth is then dyed. The parts covered in wax resist the dye and remain the original color. This process of waxing and dyeing can be repeated to create more elaborate and colorful designs. After the final dyeing the wax is removed and the cloth is ready for wearing or showing.

3. Wax is applied wherever the original color of the fabric is to remain. The fabric is crumpled up like a paper wad and soaked in the lightest color of dye that is to be used. Lines, or a crackled appearance, is typical in batik

4. The fabric is removed and allowed to dry. Then wax is applied to the fabric where the first color is to remain, crumpled again and soaked in the next darkest color. This process is repeated as often as desired until the darkest color, usually dark blue or black, is applied.

5. When all colors have been applied and the cloth is dry. Newspaper is laid down, then the cloth and then newspaper again. By using a hot iron and ironing the fabric this way, the wax is removed. Change the newspaper as needed.

6. Batik has come to be used as a generic term which refers to the process of dyeing fabric through a resist technique; covering areas of cloth with a dye-resistant substance to prevent them absorbing colors.

7. Your design can be realistic and intricate.

8. Or it can be more abstract

9. You can choose a “collage” of images that relate to fill your space.

10. Or you can choose to create a n0n-objective piece of art such as this Kandinsky-type work.

11. You can choose to combine some realism with some abstraction or non-objective areas.

12. Examples of African Batiks The batik style was brought to Africa from Indonesia. It became very popular with the African people and culture.