How to Care for Batik Fabric

Batik is a wax-resist dyeing technique to create patterns on fabric.

Batik fabrics are dyed with handmade patterns using a wax-resist technique. Melted wax is applied to the fabric in decorative motifs and left to dry. Fabric dyes are applied to the fabric and penetrate the unwaxed areas. After the dyes dry, the wax is removed. Patterns emerge that utilize the original fabric color(s) as well as the colors created by the fabric dyes. Where the wax cracks (intentionally or accidentally), the dyes seep through and create "crackling," design elements that are characteristic of the batik technique. Properly care for your batiks to keep the colors vibrant and the cloth in good condition.

Things You'll Need

• Washing machine
• Gentle laundry detergent
• Clothes dryer
• Iron
• Cotton cloth
• Plastic bags

Instructions

1. Clean batik fabrics in cold water with similar colors on a gentle or short wash cycle. Use a standard household washing machine or by hand, but with a gentle laundry detergent. Wash a new batik design in one or two additional cold rinses to remove excess dye from the fabric. Do not use ammonia or other harsh bleaches. Bring your batiks to a professional dry cleaner to be cleaned if they are very thin or have additional embellishments.

2. Toss the washed batik fabrics into the dryer on a warm temperature setting until they are completely dry. Do not twist or wring the fabric when removing excess moisture. Air-dry them instead (away from direct sunlight) if they have adornments or decorations on them.

3. Iron batiks on a low or medium heat setting if they become wrinkled. Do not use a garment steamer or steam setting when ironing, because it may distort the fabric. Place thin pieces of cotton cloth on both sides of the batik fabric while ironing. This offers additional protection against fabric distortion.

4. Fold batik fabrics and store them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and distortion when they are not being used or displayed. Place fabrics in airtight plastic bags during long-term storage to protect them against moths and other potential damage.

References

• "Batik, Tie Dying, Stenciling, Silk Screen, Block Printing: The Hand Decoration of Fabrics"; Francis J. Kafka; 1959
• "Batik Gems: 29 Dazzling Quilt Projects"; Laurie Shifrin; 2008
• "Batik and Tie Dye Techniques"; Nancy Belfer; 1972

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish