So the other weekend I decided to finally make time to create my own batik fabric! I have been reading (a LOT) and collecting dyes, waxes, and fabrics when I see them on sale. It was time to use my stuff and knowledge! Jennifer agreed to play along too which was even more motivation. 
I used 100% organic prepared-for-dye fabric. To melt the wax i used a thrifted electric wok. We also had a big rainstorm so I used rainwater for most of the dye baths and rinsing. I want my products to be as ecofriendly as possible.
Malka’s (click her name to see her awesome blog “a stitch in dye”) book Color Your Cloth was my number one resource!
First I stretched the fabric over a cardboard box, got the wax to the right temp and got to it! I used mostly cookie cutters and cardboard tubes for the prints. Then I used a paintbrush to add final details. The wax hardened pretty quickly so I just kept trying new things til I ran out of the fabric I had cut. Then that afternoon we got into the dyeing part!
I have to say I’m quite pleased with my first attempt at this. I LOVE the leaf design (scroll down) and I think customizing name banners with the letter stamps would be fun. Does anybody know where I can get some good letter cookie cutters that aren’t quite such a ‘bubbly’ font?
I may persue teaching/having workshops in the future. Any interest? Let me know and I’ll send information later.
Jennifer has an interesting take on her experience at this blogpost.
Scroll on for lots of pics of the process! If you actually want MORE pics check out my flickr…
Part of the setup!
Wax melting in the wok
Leaf design (just wax on fabric at this point)
Leaf design right after dye bath
Jennifer’s awesome dots (made with a cut carrot!)
One of my faves..
Bubbles!
Another favorite..
Dyed fabric drying in the evening sun
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