Read the text about batik.

Two thousand years ago in Indonesia, clothing made from batik fabric was only worn by kings. Now this brightly coloured fabric can be made and used by anyone for clothing and decoration. Batik is the process of decorating fabric using wax and dye. Many cultures have used this process, but the most famous examples come from the Indonesian island of Java. Today, this process is often done using machines, but many people still practise this art by hand.

On the island of Java, batik is traditionally made using white cotton cloth. To begin, the artist designs and sketches a pattern directly on the cloth. Then, the artist steadily pours melted wax on the drawn lines. When making batik by hand, Indonesian artists often use a tool called a tjanting to apply the wax. But there are many different ways to do this. Some people use a paintbrush to paint the wax onto the fabric, while others use a stamp. A stamp is more exact and allows the artist to quickly press the pattern onto the fabric over and over again.

Once the wax has been applied, it is time for the dye bath. To complete this step, the fabric is immersed in a large container of dye. The waxed part of the fabric will not absorb the colour, thus creating the pattern. Traditionally the dyes were made using natural elements, like indigo and mango leaves. The colours produced were browns and deep blues. Today, people use a variety of colours and dyes.

When the fabric is done soaking, it is laid out to dry. Lastly, the fabric is boiled to remove the wax. If desired, the artist can choose to start the process all over again and create another layer of pattern and colour. Batik can be decorated with any pattern, including simple shapes, complex swirls or stunning scenery. The options for creating beautiful fabric are limitless.