Nyanting (Wax Patterning)

Nyanting that is also called nglengreng is a process of creating pattern on a piece of linen cloth using a hot-melted wax poured through a small spout called Canting. Typically, the process starts with boiling the wax up to 60-70 degree Celsius. Once it is ready, the cloth will be put on a piece of wooden surface and the wax will be poured using Canting to draw the pattern. To create a neat and consistent Batik pattern, an artist usually required to put a regular amount mindful practice.

Nyelup (Cloth coloring)

The wax-patterned cloth, then will be coloured by soaking it in a barrel of natural dye solution. The dye usually comes from fermentation process of various local plants. The colouring process can take days up to a few months depending on the complexity of the designs. For example, certain type of Batik such as Genthongan Batik of Bangkalan in Madura Island may require 6 months period of soaking process.

Nglorod (Wax Removal)

The wax will be removed from the cloth by washing it in a hot boiled water with a mixture of sodium carbonate solution. Before this process begin, a good artisan will ensure the coloring on the cloth will remain in a good quality by using a natural solution called Gondorukem that is maded from sap of a pine tree.

 

Njemur (Cloth drying)

The final step of batik making process is drying process. This process may take 1-2 days depending on the weather. Once dried, the cloth shall be neatly folded and stored in a dry place away from direct sunlight.