Craft-a-long: Batik Tarot Cloth🐝

Live: Saturday, May 10th @ 12:00PM CST

🌙 Wax and wonder with me in this live craft-a-long as we explore the ancient art of batik to create your very own tarot tablecloth! Whether you're a seasoned mystic or a curious crafter, this project is the perfect way to infuse your space with personal style and intention. Using wax-resist techniques, I will guide you step-by-step in designing and dyeing a one-of-a-kind cloth, perfect for tarot readings, altar setups, or to add custom character to your dinner table. Together, we’ll transform plain fabric into an enchanting masterpiece that reflects your artistic journey.

Concept of possible batik pattern for this project

🐝 What to Expect: 

-A live demonstration of the batik process, including wax application and dyeing.

-Tips and techniques for creating intricate patterns and mystical designs.

-The process of removing the wax from your finished cloth.

-A warm, supportive community atmosphere to inspire your creativity!

📌 Links and Resources: Tool and supply list: Links provided are for product information and not a direct endorsement of the vendor.

Essential Supplies: Here is a store that sells pretty much all of the batik basic supplies: Batik Tools

• Fabric – 100% cotton or silk works best; size depends on your desired cloth dimensions (e.g., 24"x24" or larger). You can use any fabric dye, I am using this set which has a good reputation for color fastness and wear: https://a.co/d/gleB3VS

• Wax – Batik or beeswax (optional: a mix of beeswax and paraffin for more crackle effects). https://a.co/d/iZEpv2E

• Wax Melting Pot– I will be chucking my block of wax into a large electric melting pot, much like the melting pot an esthetician keeps their wax in when you get a Brazilian job. A crockpot would do the job. I didn't want to, so I bought this one: https://a.co/d/aBAziMS 

• Wax-Resist Tools –

  • Tjanting Tool – For fine lines and detailed designs. You can actually use your pysanky kistka as a Tjanting tool, and that would work for smaller projects, but you will find that Tjanting tools have a much larger wax well and is better suited for this particular project, here is a thrifty set: https://a.co/d/5sp8qFz

  • Brushes – For applying wax to larger areas or creating bold patterns. Keep in mind that these brushes will mostly likely only be able to be used for batik projects after they have been dipped in wax. I use broad brushes in various sizes that give me enough control over dye application, while also being able to cover larger areas of cloth.

• Dyes – Fabric dyes in colors of your choice; Procion MX or batik-specific dyes work well. You can use any fabric dye, I am using this set which has a good reputation for color fastness and wear: https://a.co/d/gleB3VS

• Buckets or Bowls – For mixing and holding dyes.

• Dye Fixative – Soda ash or another fabric dye fixer to set the colors.

• Embroidery Hoop – Useful for keeping the fabric taut while applying wax.

• Gloves – To protect your hands from dyes.

• Protective Cover – Plastic sheeting or an old tablecloth to protect your workspace from wax and dye spills.

• Iron – For removing wax after dyeing.

• Absorbent Paper or paper towels – Used during wax removal to protect your iron and workspace.

Wax Removal:

• Boil method – This is the method I use. I feel that it is the easiest and most thorough way to remove the wax residue from your cloth after you are done. In a nutshell you will boil your fabric in a large pot, which will reheat the wax, and it will float to the top of the pot. Skim the melted wax off the top, swish your fabric around for a minute, and continue removing the wax until little or no wax is left.

• Iron method – I think this is a bit tedious because it takes several passes and uses a lot of paper towels. You are also left with more residual wax than the boiling method (in my experience). Essentially, you will iron your cloth with an absorbent paper towel in-between your ironing surface and cloth, then between your cloth and your iron. The heated wax will transfer into the absorbent paper towels.

Optional Supplies:

• Pencil or Chalk – To lightly sketch designs onto the fabric.

• Design Templates – For tarot-related motifs, such as moons, stars, or cards.

• Stamps or Stencils – For creating repeating patterns with wax.

• Clothesline or Drying Rack – For drying your fabric between steps.

Walk away with something functionally magical! ✨