Batik in Indonesia

Ever taken a batik course?

Batik is a widespread traditional craft originating in Indonesia. Especially here in Java, it is widespread. In Germany, batik is often seen as a simple dyeing technique. Here, fabrics are tied with strings and dyed several times.

In Indonesia, this technique is called "Plangi". The original batik, as it is known here in Indonesia, is much more complex and over a thousand years old. In this process, the patterns are painted by hand on the fabric with hot wax water. These areas then remain white when dyed and do not take on color. Each pattern has a specific meaning, and some may only be worn on special occasions.

Batik is a popular form of formal wear in Indonesia. Especially at weddings and other celebrations, such garments are very popular.

It is an important part of Indonesian identity and is often perceived positively by tourists as well. Colorful and unusual patterns are especially popular.

 

In Indonesia, a distinction is made between two types of batik:

"Batik Tulis" and "Batik Cap".

 
1.  In "Batik Tulis", the pattern is applied to the fabric by hand with liquid wax. 

With the help of a traditional Indonesian tjanting tool, the wax can be precisely applied to the fabric. It has a small metal pot attached to a wooden handle and ends forward over a thin tip. This is the traditional form of Javanese batik and requires several weeks to make a fabric. It takes a lot of practice to get the hang of it.

 

2. “Batik Cap”, on the other hand, use a copper stamp with the desired pattern. 

This manufacturing process speeds up the creation of the fabric and allows uniform patterns to be created. The copper stamp can be made as desired and is like potato printing in Germany.

 

In both forms, it is recommended to fix the fabric at the beginning on a wooden frame or something similar. In order to avoid slipping.

 

In the end, the fabric is dyed, leaving the patterns covered with white wax. 

Here there is the possibility to dye everything uniformly or to work with several colors.

 

We did a course ourselves and I can only say: Try it! If you have the technique raushat, it's fun. So that you gain an insight into our course and how everything went I pack you here a link to the video purely.

 

We had a lot of fun making our clothes and are proud of our results.

           So much for today. See you next time! 

                                Love, Patricia :)