Batik isn't just about beautifully patterned fabric; behind each motif lies a story, culture, and a long, painstaking process. Mrs. Siti Laela, a batik artist from Betawi Terogong, shares her fascinating story about how Betawi batik is made.
There are two types of batik produced locally: hand-drawn batik and stamped batik. While the processes are similar, the difference lies in the initial stages. Hand-drawn batik begins by drawing the motif directly onto the fabric, while stamped batik uses a pre-made stamp pattern. However, both share the same goal: to elevate Betawi icons and culture, such as ondel-ondel, the National Monument (Monas), and various distinctive floral motifs often found in Jakarta, such as noni leaves and henna.
Source: Documentation of Batik Betawi Terogong by 2Madison
For written batik, after the motif is drawn, the process continues with "canting". Fill in the lines and details with wax (a special wax for batik). After that, the cloth is dyed color by color. So, each color that you want to maintain must be "walled" or closed so that it doesn't mix. The more colors, the longer the process! After everything is finished, the wax is removed using hot water, then the cloth is washed clean and dried in the sun.
Source: Documentation of Batik Betawi Terogong by 2Madison
Batik Betawi Terogong typically uses cotton for standard versions and silk for more premium custom orders. The hallmark of Mrs. Siti Laela's batik? Certainly, motifs that are deeply rooted in Betawi identity, yet also closely connected to the natural surroundings. This blend of culture and nature makes her batik unique, authentic, and, of course, meaningful.
Resource person: Mrs. Siti Laela
Interviewer: Yuni
Author: Noverdy R
