Sun-Printed Batik

Batik is a traditional technique that uses Resist to prevent dye from reaching the fabric. You can use this method to create detailed patterns on textiles, wood and unglazed ceramics. With specially formulated Inkodye you get to use the power of the sun to develop the full vibrance of your colors and make them permanent, no other steaming or fixing is required!

Step 1: What You Need:

Step 2: Decide How to Apply the Resist

We used fine line applicators, also try brushes, stencils and sponges.

Step 3: Choose Your Design

We printed out an illustration to use as an underlay, if you're brave try freehand!

Step 4: Flatten Your Work Surface

We used a mild spray adhesive, you can also use stretcher frames.

Step 5: Apply Resist

Try not to smudge your work as you go! Fine lines dry to the touch in minutes.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Check your work for gaps, dye will bleed through gaps in lines. Sign your work!

Step 7: Apply Inkodye

We started with our largest area first so that we could focus on detail later.

Step 8: Go Out Into the Sun!

Develop the full color by taking your piece into the sun, lie flat for even results.

Step 9: Watch the Color Develop

Full color will develop in 5-8 minutes in direct sunlight, longer in cloudy weather.

Step 10: Details

Using a brush paint within your lines much like coloring in a coloring book.

Step 11: Develop Your Final Colors

Take into the sun to develop the details, let it achieve its full vibrancy.

Step 12: Wash Out Resist

Dissolve resist in warm water with mild soap. Thick lines will take longer to dissolve.

Step 13: Take a Look at Your Work!

Where the resist was is now clean white lines to border the dye.

Step 14: Dry Your Artwork

We dried ours in the sun, but any method will do just fine.

Step 15: Enjoy Your Piece

We were able to wear our scarf less than an hour after finishing.

Step 16: Share Your Artwork!

Don't let it sit at home, show your friends or wear your piece out and about!