Wax is prepared by mixing bee wax and paraffin wax in the ratio 3:7. A hot plate or electric heater is used to heat it because it is inflammable. Resin is added when the wax is hot and acts as a binder. The wax has to be absolutely clear and thin to penetrate the other side of the cloth. Cotton and silk cloths are usually used for batik printing that are first bleached and dried overnight. These are laid out on a table that is kept cool with sand and water. This ensures that the wax doesn’t spread and the design stays consistent throughout. Wax printing is done either with the hand, using a brush or with wooden blocks depending on the desired result.
