Batik:
Batik is an ancient art form and a methodology for dyeing fabric. In Batik, melted wax is applied in intricate designs on fabric. Once the fabric is dyed, the wax is removed, leaving the design area the original color of the fabric. Artists in Africa and many other parts of the world have created beautiful batik fabrics that are unique to the materials, symbols, and ideas of their culture.
Ready to make your own Batik?
In this activity you will need:
- One piece of muslin cut into an 8″x12″ rectangle
- Washable glue (we will be using this to avoid working with hot wax!)
- Small paintbrush
- Paper plate or bowl for glue
- Pencil
- Your Batik template of choice
Download here:
R-9b – Batik Geometric Shapes Simple
R-9c – Batik Geometric Shapes Advanced
Place fabric over template design. Use a pencil to lightly trace the pattern of your choice onto the cloth.
Remove from the pattern to reveal the design.
Apply glue over the design in one of two ways:
1. Trace lines with glue straight from the bottle.
2. Trace lines with paintbrush dipped in glue.
Whichever way you choose, be sure that a sufficient amount of glue is used to cover the outline so that the pattern is maintained. At the same time, don’t put so much glue on the fabric that the clean look of the design is lost.
Allow glue to dry completely (at least 24 hours).