These images show all the steps involved in creating batik.  “Batik” pronounced “bah-teek” is a traditional wax and dye process in Ghana.  First the design or shape is cut out of a foam to create a stamp.  This foam is then dipped in melted wax and then stamped onto fabric.  The fabric is then dipped in dye.  Wherever there is wax, the dye will not stick, so it leaves the pattern.  After being dyed the fabric is boiled to remove the wax and then it  is laid out in the sun to dry.  If you look at a piece of batik fabric that has multiple colors, be reminded that the artists had to go through the entire process for each color: stamp, dye, boil, dry.

<<Back                           Next>>