Batik art from Parrilla Workshop
Batik is both, an art and a craft. Traditionally it is a cloth made using a wax-resist dying technique.
To create a batik, selected areas of the cloth are blocked out by applying a hot wax over them. The cloth is then dyed. It is common to use a mixture of beeswax and paraffin wax, which is responsible for the characteristic cracking. The parts covered in wax resist the dye and remain the original colour. This process of dying and waxing can be repeated to create many elaborated and colourful designs. Thin wax lines are made with tjanting. A wooden handled tool with a tiny metal cup with a little spout out of which the wax seeps. after the last dying, the fabric is hung up to dry. Than it is dipped in a solvent to dissolve the wax or ironed between paper towels or newspapers to absorb the wax and reveal the deep rich colours and the fine lines that give batik its character.
Batik has a worldwide popularity, fabrics with the traditional batik patterns are found in Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, China, Azerbaijan, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal and Singapore. It is an ancient art form. Evidence of early examples of batik have been found in the far east, Middle East, Central Asia, and India, from over 2000 years ago.
Javanese (Indonesia) traditional batik especially from Yogyakarta and Surakarta has notable meanings rooted to the Javanese conceptualization of the Universe.
In Europe, the technique is described for the first time in the history of Java. Published in London in 1817 by Sir Thomas Stamphord Raffles, who had been a British governor for the island.
How to take care of your batiks
Taking care of a batik painting requires careful and thoughtful handling to preserve its color, texture and integrity over time. Please follow these recommendations to guide you through the maintenance and preservation of its beauty:
Cleaning and Dusting:
Avoid washing: Batik paintings are not meant to be washed, water and detergents can damage the wax and dyes. Dust gently: Use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster to remove surface dust, for framed pieces behind glass, clean the glass only. No chemicals: Never use sprays, solvents, or cleaning products on the fabric itself.
Environmental Care
Keep away from direct sunlight: UV rays can fade the vibrant dyes over time. Avoid humidity and damp areas: Moisture can cause mold or degrade the wax, ideal humidity is around 40–60%. Temperature stability: Avoid placing batik near heaters, fireplaces, or air conditioners as sudden temperature changes can cause cracking or warping.
Framing and Display
Glass or acrylic frames protect the surface from dust, moisture, and accidental contact. Use acid-free backing: Prevents discoloration or chemical reactions with the fabric. Avoid stretching tightly: Batik is delicate; tension can distort the design or damage the waxed areas.
Storage Tips
Store flat or rolled loosely: If not framed, roll the batik with acid-free tissue paper, never fold it — creases can crack the wax and break the dye lines. Use breathable materials: Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers. Natural fibers like cotton or linen wraps are ideal.
Handling Repairs
Do not iron directly: If needed, place a cloth over the batik and use low heat, but avoid ironing waxed areas. Consult a textile conservator: For any damage, fading, or wax deterioration, seek professional restoration rather than DIY fixes.
