Fabric Types & Dye Compatibility

Fabric Type Best Dye Types Ease of Dyeing Notes
Cotton Fiber reactive dyes Easy Absorbs vibrant colours
Silk Acid dyes Intermediate Smooth finish, bright colours
Rayon Fiber reactive dyes Easy Soft hand, vivid colour uptake
Linen Fiber reactive dyes Intermediate Natural texture, less absorbent
Wool Acid dyes Intermediate Warm colours, slower drying

Essential Tools & Materials

Tool/Material Purpose Notes
Tjanting Tool Applying wax in fine lines Traditional or copper versions
Wax (Beeswax/Paraffin) Resist dye to create patterns Blend for optimal flexibility
Dye (Fiber Reactive/Acid) Fabric colouration Choose based on fabric type
Stamp/Mater (Cap) Repeating wax patterns Used for block printing
Heat Source Melting wax Stove or electric hotplate
Fabric Natural fibers preferred Pre-washed for best results
Resist Tools Brushes, tjanting, stamps For varied wax application
Fixative/Soda Ash Enhances dye bonding For fiber reactive dyes

Batik Wax Application Techniques

Technique Description Tools Used Effect Achieved
Freehand Drawing Wax applied by hand with tjanting tool Tjanting, brush Fine, detailed lines
Stamping (Cap) Wax stamped in repeated patterns Copper stamps (cap) Uniform, repetitive motifs
Brush Application Wax brushed onto fabric Brushes Broad, fluid shapes
Crackle Effect Wax cracks during dyeing for lines Intentional cracking after waxing Unique veined texture

Dyeing & Wax Removal Process

Step Description Tips
Wax Application Apply wax to areas to resist dye Work quickly before wax hardens
Dye Fabric Submerge fabric in dye bath Use correct dye for fabric type
Dry & Remove Wax Boil or iron fabric between absorbent papers Multiple wax removals may be needed
Repeat Process For multi-colour designs, repeat waxing and dyeing Plan colour order from light to dark

Common Batik Patterns

Pattern Name Description Cultural Origin
Parang Diagonal lines and knife shapes Indonesian (Java)
Kawung Overlapping circles, star shapes Indonesian (Java)
Mega Mendung Cloud motifs with soft edges Indonesian (Cirebon)
Ceplok Geometric flower or star patterns Indonesian (Java)
Sekar Jagad Floral motifs symbolizing universe Indonesian (Java)

Fabric Preparation & Care

Step Description Notes
Pre-wash Fabric Remove sizing and dirt Use mild detergent
Soda Ash Soak Fixes dye on cotton and rayon Follow dye manufacturer’s guide
Dry Flat Prevent wrinkles Hang or lay flat
Gentle Washing Hand wash in cold water Avoid harsh detergents
Avoid Direct Sunlight Prevents fading Dry in shade

Tips for Beginners

Tip Explanation
Start Simple Begin with basic patterns and colours
Practice Wax Control Learn to handle tjanting tool smoothly
Use Natural Fibers Easier dye absorption and better results
Work in Sections Apply wax and dye in manageable areas
Plan Colour Order Dye from light to dark for layering
Protect Work Area Wax and dye can be messy—use covers

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem Cause Solution
Wax Cracks Too Much Wax blend too brittle or too thick Adjust wax ratio, heat wax gently
Colours Bleeding Wax not fully applied or too thin Apply thicker wax or reapply
Uneven Dyeing Fabric not fully soaked Stir fabric during dyeing
Dye Not Setting Incorrect dye or no fixative used Use appropriate fixatives
Difficulty Removing Wax Wax layer too thick or hardened Reheat and use multiple removals

Project Ideas

Project Fabric Type Complexity Time Estimate
Batik Scarf Silk or cotton Beginner 3–4 hours
Wall Hanging Panel Cotton Intermediate 5–6 hours
Batik Cushion Covers Cotton or linen Intermediate 4–5 hours
Table Runner Cotton or linen Advanced 6+ hours
Custom Fabric Yardage Cotton Advanced Multiple sessions