The History and Types of Batik Wax

In the world of batik, wax or "malam" plays an important role as a resist agent, preventing dye from penetrating the fabric and creating distinctive motifs and patterns. This resist dyeing technique has been known since the era of the Sriwijaya Kingdom. Batik wax, a key element in this process, is made from various natural materials and has evolved significantly.

Types of Batik Wax

Batik wax comes in various types according to its use in the batik-making process, including:

1. Klowong Batik Wax: Used to create motif or pattern lines on the fabric.

2. Tembokan Batik Wax: This wax is used to cover most of the fabric, usually to preserve the base colour of the fabric from other dyes.

3. Tutupan Batik Wax: Used to cover the entire fabric surface.

History of Batik Wax Development in Indonesia

Initially, the wax used in the batik process came from natural materials such as beeswax, known as "malam" or "kote." However, as the demand for wax increased, beeswax began to be mixed with plant-based materials, such as Gondorukem and Damar Matakucing, to increase production volume.

Over time, the composition of batik wax has been refined. Additives such as animal fat—kendal or gajih—and coconut oil have also been added to soften the wax and lower its melting point, making it easier to remove from the fabric after the dyeing process is complete. In some regions, rice flour paste is also used as a resist agent, namely in making simbut cloth.

Elements of Batik Wax

The following are the main ingredients used in making batik wax:

1. Malam Tawon (Kote)

Malam tawon originated from beehives, and there are two known types, unduhan bees (tawon doan) and lanceng bees. This wax has a low melting point (58-60°C), good adhesion, and is stable against weather changes. The main production areas of this wax include Palembang, Timor, and Sumbawa.

2. Gondorukem

Also known as Gondo or Harpus, Gondorukem is obtained from the sap of Pinus Merkusii trees. Production areas include Pekalongan and Ponorogo. Gondorukem melts easily when heated, takes time to solidify when cooled, and is not resistant to alkali or caustic soda.

3. Damar Matakucing

This wax comes from the sap of Shorea species trees. It is hard to melt when heated and quickly solidifies when cooled. Damar is resistant to alkali and is used in batik wax mixtures to strengthen the wax.

4. Paraffin

A product derived from earth-based materials, paraffin comes in two types, white and yellow. It is often used in klowong and tembokan wax due to its easy melting and quick solidifying properties, as well as its resistance to alkali.

5. Microwax

A fine and flexible type of paraffin with a melting point of around 70°C. Microwax has low adhesion, penetrates fabric poorly, and is resistant to alkali solutions. It is usually used for fine batik.

6. Kendal (Animal Fat)

Animal fat or kendal is taken from cattle or buffalo meat. It functions to soften the wax and lower its melting point, making it easier to remove during the "pelorodan" process (removing the wax from the fabric).

7. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is used as a substitute for kendal. Its softening properties and ability to lower the melting point make it an important ingredient in batik wax mixtures.

The Process of Mixing Batik Wax: Steps and Examples

In batik wax making, one important process is mixing (menjebor), where the wax ingredients are mixed in liquid form until a homogeneous mixture is achieved. This process is carefully performed to ensure that all ingredients blend well and produce quality batik wax. Here is a complete guide on how to mix batik wax.

Principles of Mixing Batik Wax

Mixing batik wax involves several key steps, where ingredients with different melting points are mixed sequentially. The basic principles of batik wax mixing include:

1. Mixing Based on Melting Point

Ingredients with a high melting point are added to the melting container first, while those with a lower melting point are added later. This is important to ensure even melting and prevent burning.

2. Continuous Stirring

During the mixing process, the wax must be stirred regularly and continuously to ensure a homogeneous mixture. Proper stirring is crucial to avoid clumping or uneven blending.

3. Stable Heating

The heat should be kept at a moderate level, not too high. Excessive heating can damage the wax composition and affect its quality.

4. Filtering and Molding

After mixing is complete, the wax is filtered using coarse fabric to remove impurities or clumps. The wax is then poured into moulds and allowed to cool and harden.

Order of Ingredient Addition Based on Melting Point

Each batik wax ingredient has a different melting point, and their addition order must follow the following:

1. Damar Matakucing: 82-85°C

2. Gondorukem: 80-82°C

3. Microwax: 70°C

4. Paraffin: 60°C

5. Malam Tawon (Kote): 59°C

6. Kendal (Animal Fat): 50°C

7. Recycled Wax: 55-60°C

Example of Batik Wax Mixing

For example, here is a recipe and steps for mixing klowong wax used in hand drawn batik:

- 2 kg Damar Matakucing

- 4 kg Gondorukem

- 3 kg Recycled Wax

- 1 kg Paraffin

- 3 kg Malam Tawon (Kote)

- 1 kg Kendal

Mixing Steps:

1. Add Damar Matakucing

Since it has the highest melting point, Damar Matakucing is added first to the melting container. Heat until it fully melts, then stir evenly.

2. Add Gondorukem

After Damar Matakucing melts, add Gondorukem and stir until both ingredients are well mixed.

3. Add Paraffin

Once Gondorukem melts, add Paraffin and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth.

4. Add Recycled Wax

Add the prepared recycled wax and stir until well blended.

5. Add Malam Tawon (Kote)

After the recycled wax blends, add this wax and stir until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

6. Add Kendal Last

Since Kendal has the lowest melting point, it is added last and stirred until the mixture is thoroughly homogeneous.

7. Filtering and Molding

Once all ingredients are well mixed, pour the liquid wax through a coarse cloth filter into moulds. Let the wax cool and harden. Once cooled, the wax can be removed from the mould and is ready for use.

Conclusion

The process of mixing batik wax requires precision and patience, especially in terms of temperature control and stirring. By following the correct order and steps, the resulting batik wax will be of good quality and suitable for the batik-making process. This process not only blends natural materials but is also part of Indonesia's rich cultural heritage in batik art and tradition.

Adapted from Sewan Susanto & GKBI (1974), LILIN BATIK