How to Make Homemade Batik Fabric

The batik dyeing technique has its roots in Asia.

Batik, which means "wax written," is a dyeing process that involves painting fabric with wax to prevent the fabric from absorbing dye. This technique of dyeing has decreased in popularity because of its tedious process, but the results of a well-executed batik project create one-of-a-kind designs that provide stunning material for craft projects. The finished fabric works well for clothing, accessories or as home decor.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Pattern
• Newspaper
• Pencil
• Paraffin wax
• Double boiler or heavy saucepan
• Thermometer
• Apron
• Gloves
• Fabric dye
• Uniodized salt
• 2 small plastic containers.
• Vinegar
• Paper towel

Instructions

1. Cover the workspace with newspaper to protect it from the wax and dye. Place the fabric on the flat work surface, and trace your pattern onto the fabric with a pencil.

2. Place the paraffin wax into a double boiler or heavy saucepan. Heat the wax to 170 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Paint wax onto areas of the fabric where you don't want dye to go, keeping your strokes even. Wax prevents the fabric from absorbing the dye.

4. Put on an apron and gloves. Mix the dye according to the manufacturer's instructions in a plastic container. Add 1 tsp. of uniodized salt for every quart of dye. The uniodized salt acts as a fixative.

5. Fill the other plastic container with lukewarm water and submerge the fabric in the water to help the dye soak in evenly.

6. Slowly add the fabric to the dye container so you do not crack the wax. Leave the fabric in the dye for 20 minutes.

7. Rinse the fabric in clean water. Put the fabric back into the dye bath if it is not dark enough.

8. Allow the fabric to dry.

9. Lay the fabric on the workspace. Place paper towels above and under the wax. Iron the fabric until the wax has heated up and can be removed from the fabric. Keep ironing until all the wax is gone.

10. Iron all of the fabric to set the dye.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash, dry and iron the fabric before dyeing it to prevent the fabric from shrinking later. Washing also removes dyes in the fabric.

• Submerge the fabric in cold water for a cracked effect. Crush the wax with your hands and place it in the dye.

• Dry clean or hand wash the batik fabric.

• Apply the lightest color first if you are dyeing the fabric two colors.

• Avoid dye that requires hot water. The hot water may loosen the wax, which will loosen the dye. Let the dye cool before applying it to the fabric if you choose to use this type of coloring.

References

• Craft Bits: How to Batik Dye: DIY Craft Projects Instructions
• Craft Town: Batik Free Instructions