How to Dye Batik Fabric
Batik fabric is material that has been dyed to create an exotic looking pattern, like those found in Asian countries like China, Japan and Malaysia. You can create your own batik fabric at home using a simple dying process that utilizes materials such as chalk and paraffin wax. The process uses a number of steps, but the finished product is worth it, as you will be left with a professional looking batik fabric at a fraction of the normal cost.
Things You'll Need
- Cotton fabric
- Washer
- Dryer
- Iron
- Chalk
- Paraffin wax
- Bowl
- Paint brush
- Fabric dye
- Bucket
- Clothesline
- Paper towels
Instructions
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1
Wash and dry the fabric you're working with, as this will help the dye adhere to the material. Iron the fabric to remove any creases or folds.
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2
Lay the fabric on a flat surface and draw a design of your choosing using white chalk.
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3
Melt paraffin wax in a bowl using the microwave. You can find paraffin wax at most craft stores.
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4
Paint the wax onto the chalk pattern using a thin paint brush. Let the wax dry.
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5
Prepare a dye bath using the instructions on the back of the dye box you're using. Mix the dye bath and water in a plastic bucket.
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6
Submerge the fabric in the dye bath and let sit for 20 minutes.
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7
Remove the fabric from the dye bath and wring out excess liquid. Hang the fabric to dry outside on a clothesline.
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8
Lay the dried fabric on a flat surface. Place a paper towel over a portion of the paraffin wax and press a heated iron over the paper towel. The iron will melt the wax, which will stick to the paper towel. Repeat this process until all the wax has been removed. The material that was under the wax will not have been dyed, creating the batik pattern.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose a light colored fabric to help the dye show up better.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the dye.
References
- Photo Credit fabric swatches image by Empath from Fotolia.com
