How to Make Faux Batik for Kids

Nothing has a more distinct look than batik. However, for young children or classroom situations it's not something that's practical to get involved in. For classrooms and home art situations, knowing how to make faux batik is crucial to create that unique batik look that is so engaging to look at without the long process or mess involved. In the following few paragraphs I've outlined this process.

1. First, mix two teaspoons of alum with a ½ cup of water until it's dissolved to create a fluid that will stick to the batik fabric. Slowly add some flour to that mixture and stir continually making sure to get rid of any lumps in your paste that develop. This mix will go into a bottle and you'll need it free of lumps

2.Tightly stretch your fabric over a hoop for embroidering, being sure to keep the entire piece as tight as possible. If it's not tight enough your colors will stay where you want them instead of running and forming puddles.

3. Create your design in bold, solid lines with your paste that are distinct and easy to see. Once that's complete allow your design to dry thoroughly. If it's not completely dry you'll have a problem when you add colors

4. Next, you're ready to spray dye. Mix small amounts of dye in spray bottles and use those to lightly spray over the fabric. This creates a nice light mist that easily flows gradually from one color to the next. Once you've finished with spraying your colors, it's time to let it dry again. Be sure to allow enough time for the lines of paste as well. Then, peel off the paste to expose the original fabric color you covered.

5. To set the colors for a finished look, place the completed batik in the dryer and allow it to spin in the heat for around 15 minutes. This will ensure that the colors set well and stay put without and bleeding or other problems.

As stated earlier in the article, getting involved in the process of real batiking isn't practical for the kids, but that doesn't mean they can't get a taste of that art form by carrying out this procedure to help them get an appreciation for batik and it's distinctive look. Not only will the kids develop an appreciation for this unique art form, they'll have the satisfaction of knowing that they did it themselves.

You can also frame batik creations for interesting wall hangings that are good conversation pieces. Especially those that are made by the kids.