BATIKING WITH SILK MATERIAL

I'm doing batik on silk scarves. Very challenging. I've not done this before. The material keeps running out of my hands, very uncontrollable. I've dip-dyed them for a start and this has a small problem - I've to re wax all areas again as the already waxed layers had become thinner/weaker.
Silk is a good material that dries fast and retains its shiny look after application of dyes and hot wax.

Breakthrough
I've been worried about how I was going to remove the wax. Ironing is out of my list of options. The only viable option is boiling (this is a scary option because you tend to think that colors will run out). The good news is that colors have not run out, even when I rinse with cold water the fabric just becomes softer and better. This is unprecedented in my experience as a batik artist. I think it opens a door to my dream of making batik designs on fabric that can be worn. Thank God for this breakthrough.

Comments

DOLORES said…
I just happened on your blog - and am also a batik artist. Just started back into doing the scarves on silk also. Have always ironed out the wax (unsuccessfully) and never boiled. But will try that now after reading your last entry. Thank you!
Lukandwa said…
Hi LOLA, I appreciate your comment. Ironing out wax is the best way with cotton fabric or if your intention is to do a wall hanging. However with silk which is suitable for wearing, boiling out wax makes the final outcome light weight. The precaution will be that before boiling or rinsing in hot water, make sure that you had effectively fixed your dyes, otherwise the colors will run out. Best wishes.
Dominic

Popular posts from this blog

ELEPHANT BATIK ART