Question 6
(a) Explain batik.
(b) List any eight tools for wax resist production.
(c) Identify any four problems associated with batik production.
Observation
The question was popular among the candidates, and they performed above average in this question. Some candidates could not differentiate between materials and tools, thereby listing both tools and materials together instead of tools only. This made them to lose some marks. They were expected to respond to the question in the following manner
(a) Explanation of batik:
It is a method/technique of applying wax/starch on fabric to prevent the absorption of dye and to create/form patterns/designs. Batik is an Indonesian word derived from ‘titik’ or ‘tik’, meaning ‘a little bit’ or ‘a drop’. This refers to the tiny drops of hot melted wax used on the fabric to resist the dye.
(b) Tools for wax resist production:
Table, Bowl/Bucket, Jug, Tjanting, Spoon, Hand/Rubber gloves, Electric/Coal/Stove pressing iron, Nose mask/guard, Mouth mask/guard, Brush, Boiling ring/Water heater, Apron/Overall, Foam, Industrial/Rain/Safety boots, Safety glasses/Sunshade/Goggles, Scissors, Blade, Knife, Stamp, Thumb nail/pin, Kettle, Stirrer, Beater, Pot, Stove (electric/kerosene/sawdust), Gas cooker/Gas stove, Coal pot.
- Problems associated with batik production:
- Non availability of materials and tools in some areas.
- Inadequate fund/capital.
- It is time consuming.
- Cost of production is high.
- Failure to follow safety measures/precautions during production leads to health hazards/dangers such as burns and electric shock.
- Danger such as ignition of fire may occur when wax is overheated.
- Careless immersion of waxed fabric into hot dye solution.