Beyond the Fabric: Why Does Authentic Batik Carry a Premium Price Tag?

If there is one thing that can be a reason behind the true value of this traditional fabric, it’s this Javanese saying; Alon-alon waton kelakon. Which means slowly, we’ll get there.

Have you ever scrolled through social media and found some models or celebrities who wear Batik and they look really cool wearing it? But when you go to check the prices, it turns out that the price is really expensive. Have you ever wondered why?

The prices of Batik, a UNESCO-recognized masterpiece of oral and intangible heritage of humanity from Indonesia, might seem inexplicably high to the untrained eye. But unraveling the secrets behind its creation will also unveil the intricate tapestry of tradition, dedication, and significance that elevates this ancient textile to its esteemed status.

Although it looks interesting and calming, the process of Batik-making is not as easy as it seems. Picture yourself delicately drawing a design, applying a hot wax onto fabric, methodically forming intricate patterns before immersing it into vibrant dyes. A Batik artist may work for a couple of hours at a time during a single sitting, and it's not uncommon for sessions to last anywhere from 6 to 8 hours or even longer in some cases! It’s always easier said than done, right?

We can’t deny that the creation of traditional batik is a labor-intensive process demanding precision and skill. But patience is the soul of Batik-making. That is why Javanese people say, Alon-alon waton kelakon. Not rushed or hasty, full of awareness and attention. Every stroke is expressed in the form of Batik art.

This labor-intensive process can take weeks or even months. Starting with designing patterns on the fabric. Continued with waxing using a canting (a traditional tool for applying wax). This part alone needs to be done carefully because the areas where we apply the wax to will be the areas that remain undyed later. After the wax has been applied, the fabric is dyed in the desired colors. Then we can jump into the final step which is the wax removal to reveal the batik pattern.

Aside from the complex patterns, motifs, and techniques from the Batik-making, authentic Batik is made using high-quality natural fibers, primarily silk and fine cotton, which themselves are costly. The dyes used are often natural and sourced locally, adhering to traditional methods that are environmentally sustainable but economically demanding. Additionally, the use of canting requires not just the procurement of specific materials but also skilled craftsmanship to manufacture. If Javenese dagger called Keris has Empu or Masters that made it, In Batik there are also masters, which is our traditional artisans, who made the creation of Batik possible.

While also selling the quality of its aesthetics, the meaning behind each stroke of Batik motifs is just as important. The patterns and designs of batik are more than ornamental; they carry stories passed down through generations, each motif holding its own unique significance. From symbols of fertility to representations of mythological creatures, every pattern is a window into Indonesia's diverse cultural heritage. This depth of meaning infuses each piece of batik with a sense of pride and connection to the past, elevating its value beyond mere fabric.