What we do
We sell premium quality hand-made batik sarongs from Java in Indonesia.
What we don't do
There is batik, and then there is batik
There are many companies supplying sarongs with a machine printed batik-type pattern, produced in vast numbers, in large factories. We use more traditional methods.
Why are our sarongs different?
Owing to the nature of the production process, our sarongs cannot be mass-produced. Here's why:
Batik is an Indonesian word referring to the decoration of material by a wax resist technique. There are many batik styles and techniques. Our sarongs are made in the following way.
A pattern is applied to the base fabric in hot wax. The main application of wax is by a copper hand stamp called a 'tjap'. When the main pattern has been applied, small details are drawn on by hand using a wax pen called a 'canting'. Once the wax is dry, the fabric is dipped in a dye bath. The fabric beneath the wax does not take up the dye, and when the wax is removed with hot water, a pattern of white lines is left. (Note that for many designs, a mirror image of the wax pattern is also applied to the reverse side of the cloth to ensure the sarong is equally vivid on both sides. There is never an 'inside-out' with our sarongs).
This process can be repeated a number of times to create complex patterns in many colours. The technique of applying a wax resist to decorate material is ancient and is practised in many parts of the world. However, it is Indonesia, and particularly the island of Java, where the highest levels of skill and artistry exist today.
There's more!
We only use top-quality cotton and rayon, not horrible cheap rubbish that disintegrates after a few washes. Our sarongs are dyed properly so they will not fade if you follow the washing instructions.
Finally, our sarongs are big! Our standard size is 225cm x 115 cm (88ins x 45ins) - much larger than most sarongs available in the UK.
The people involved.
Much of the work is done by batik artists working from home so they can be with their families. Many families have been producing batik for generations and will pass their knowledge and skill onto their children.
Want to see how it's done?
You can watch a short video that we took at one of our suppliers in 2007. Making batik shows designs being hand-drawn onto material, the application of wax using a canting, dyeing and washing to remove wax.
Sarongs made to order.
We will make batik sarongs and other garments to order. If you would like your own batik designs (including logos) put on sarongs, shirts, kaftans, bags etc. then please contact us for more information.
Want to know more?
We are always happy to answer any questions you may have. Send us an e-mail and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.