Batik for beginners - make a gorgeous scarf
What you'll do
If you aren't already familiar with this magical textile decoration technique from Indonesia - that's about to change! Batik is an ancient, 'wax-resist' method of decorating textiles that produces lovely creative designs.
This is an informal and relaxing workshop for total beginners and for anyone with some experience who wants to develop their skills further. Here's what is in store for you:
- Learn how to create designs safely using hot wax, using a silk fabric base
- Use a variety of mark-making tools
- Develop your own repeat patterns
- Experiment with colour combinations
- Remove the wax to magically reveal your unique finished design
You will make a practice piece and a finished scarf that you can proudly wear, display or use in a sewing project. There’s no need for any familiarity with the technique - Sarah has many years of experience running batik activities, so she’s confident she will be able to help you find an inspiring way into this lovely practice!
Just come along with an open mind and be ready to experiment with this mindful, satisfying technique. You won't regret it!
NB: young people aged 14+ can attend this workshop with an adult - please book a place each.
Upcoming dates
What you'll do
If you aren't already familiar with this magical textile decoration technique from Indonesia - that's about to change! Batik is an ancient, 'wax-resist' method of decorating textiles that produces lovely creative designs.
This is an informal and relaxing workshop for total beginners and for anyone with some experience who wants to develop their skills further. Here's what is in store for you:
- Learn how to create designs safely using hot wax, using a silk fabric base
- Use a variety of mark-making tools
- Develop your own repeat patterns
- Experiment with colour combinations
- Remove the wax to magically reveal your unique finished design
You will make a practice piece and a finished scarf that you can proudly wear, display or use in a sewing project. There’s no need for any familiarity with the technique - Sarah has many years of experience running batik activities, so she’s confident she will be able to help you find an inspiring way into this lovely practice!
Just come along with an open mind and be ready to experiment with this mindful, satisfying technique. You won't regret it!
NB: young people aged 14+ can attend this workshop with an adult - please book a place each.
How to get there
Share this experience
Facilities
- Toilets
- WiFi
COVID-19 guidelines
- There will be a limit on numbers to allow for plenty of space between guests during the workshop.
- Please bring a mask and you will decide as a group if you prefer to wear them.
- The door will be open for ventilation.
On the day
- Please arrive 10 minutes before the workshop starts; you can settle in and make a cuppa
- Bring an apron - silk paint may stain clothes
- Feel free to bring along any images or ideas to inspire your design
- The space is warm, but the door will be open, so wear layers!
- Tea, squash and biscuits provided (decent coffee available at the cafe next door)
- There is on-street pay and display parking in the local area - it's often busy so allow plenty of time to park, especially on Match Days
Changes happen, don't worry
About Batik Batik Workshops
Batik Batik Workshops specialise in hosting – you've guessed it – batik workshops!
Batik is the traditional Indonesian “wax-resist” method of decorating textiles. Surface patterns are created by applying hot wax to a fabric base, a layer of colour is added, and finally the wax is removed to reveal the finished design.
This simple, satisfying and slow process requires specialist tools and works best on fine silk fabrics. Sarah’s mission is to make batik more accessible to lots of people, inviting guests to experiment with this practice in a contemporary manner and discover its endless possibilities, without the need to invest in pricey materials and equipment.
Over the years, Sarah has taught this technique in a wide range of settings to people of all ages - all fascinated by the process and delighted by its results.
Whether you’re completely new to this practice or have some experience, Sarah will encourage you to discover your own colour and pattern ideas, then guide you through the process of making a beautiful textile design that reflects your personality and style.
Your host
Sarah is a designer-maker, textiles tutor and arts educator. This Bristol creative has over 20 years experience under her belt of hosting arts and crafts workshops. Sarah wants to make the unique process of batik accessible to all.
For a number of years, Sarah worked as a freelance community artist specialising in fabric-based projects. As Lockdown eased, she revisited her own creative practice in batik. She found great comfort and renewed joy in mindfully printing repeat patterns with hot wax and developing eye-catching colour combinations. This felt like the beginning of something special, a contemporary style of batik to be shared with others.
Sarah’s main focus now is offering batik workshops, not only because it’s her favourite medium, but also because it’s a relaxing and endlessly creative process that produces a myriad of magical results.
What people are saying
Great session!
My mum and I did this course together with a group. It was a wonderful afternoon, of creativity, laughter, inspiration and delicious biscuits. Sarah was a fantastic teacher and I’d definitely love to come back. Highly recommended.
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Batik Batik Workshops.
Upcoming dates
What people are saying
Great session!
My mum and I did this course together with a group. It was a wonderful afternoon, of creativity, laughter, inspiration and delicious biscuits. Sarah was a fantastic teacher and I’d definitely love to come back. Highly recommended.
Share this experience