batik
The name ‘Batik’ originates from the Javanese word ‘amba’ meaning ‘to write’ and ‘titik’ which means ‘to dot’.
The process involves blocking areas of cloth with liquid wax then dying the cloth. The waxed in areas resist the dye and retain the original colour…..repeat.
Lighter colours can be covered over with the darker dyes as the dye and wax process is repeated. Highlights are drawn first rather than shadow which is why batik is often known as ‘painting with light’.
After the final dying the wax is removed and the work is complete.
etching
Etching is the technique used to create an intaglio (carved) impression on metal which is then used to print with, the prints are often referred to as ‘etchings’.
To create an etching a metal plate is protected with a ground, often wax. Areas of wax are removed exposing the metal below to chemical erosion when covered with acid. The wax is removed. Ink is passed over the plate, the groves created by the acid retain the ink. This inked plate is then used to print the image onto paper.