Note for teachers using this lesson plan
This lesson introduces students to different types of batik dyeing, focusing specifically on resist techniques, and then details the practical method of applying wax resist by splashing with brown or foam. Teachers should prepare a demonstration of the wax splashing technique, ensuring all necessary materials and safety precautions are in place. By the end of the lesson, students should be able to describe the process of creating wax resist patterns through splashing.
Class: SS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 2
Age: 17 years
Duration: 60 minutes
Subject: Dyeing and Bleaching
Previous Lesson: Batik and Wax Resist Dyeing
Topic: Types of Batik Dyeing and Resist Techniques
Subject Matter: Wax resist by splashing with brown or foam
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils/students should be able to:
Cognitive Domain
- Define batik dyeing.
- Identify different types of batik dyeing.
- Explain the concept of resist techniques in batik.
- Describe the procedure for applying wax resist by splashing.
Affective Domain
- Appreciate the artistic possibilities of batik resist techniques.
- Value precision and safety in handling dyeing materials.
Psychomotor Domain
- Outline the steps for creating wax resist patterns through splashing.
- Identify appropriate materials for a wax resist splashing technique.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 2014 Senior Secondary Education Curriculum (SSEC)
- Relevant State Unified Scheme of Work
- FCT ERC/NAPPS Scheme of work
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Samples of batik fabric showing different resist patterns.
- Melted wax (paraffin or beeswax, possibly brown-coloured).
- Fabric dye.
- White cotton fabric pieces.
- Brushes, sponges, or foam pieces for splashing.
- Heat source (e.g., hot plate, wax pot).
- Newspaper or protective sheets.
- Safety gloves and apron.
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson is important for students to understand the diverse methods of batik dyeing, particularly focusing on resist techniques. It provides practical knowledge of how to create unique patterns using wax splashing, which is a fundamental skill in textile design and art. Mastering these techniques enhances students’ creativity and practical application of dyeing principles.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of what batik is and general knowledge of dyeing processes.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
Types of Batik Dyeing and Resist Techniques
Introduction to Batik Dyeing
Batik is an ancient art form that uses wax-resist dyeing on fabric. It is a method of decorating cloth by covering parts of it with a wax design, then dyeing the cloth, and finally removing the wax. The waxed areas resist the dye, creating a pattern.
Types of Batik Dyeing Methods
Batik dyeing methods can generally be classified into:
- Direct Dyeing: This involves applying dye directly to the fabric without a resist, often used for background colours or tie-dye.
- Resist Dyeing: This method involves applying a substance (like wax, starch, or paste) to certain areas of the fabric to prevent those areas from absorbing dye. The lesson focuses on this type, specifically wax resist.
Resist Techniques in Batik
Resist techniques are central to batik, where a resist agent is applied to the fabric to block the dye from reaching specific areas. Common resist agents include:
- Wax: The most traditional and widely used resist, applied hot and then allowed to cool.
- Starch/Paste: A thick paste made from flour or rice, applied to the fabric and allowed to dry.
- Tie-Dyeing: Fabric is folded, twisted, pleated, or crumpled and then tied with string or rubber bands to create patterns.
- Stitching: Areas are stitched tightly to resist dye penetration.
This lesson focuses on wax resist, particularly the splashing method.
Wax Resist by Splashing with Brown or Foam
Splashing wax is a technique used to create random, organic, or textured patterns on fabric. The “brown or foam” aspect refers to either the natural colour of the wax used or the method of application that creates a frothy, textured, or scattered effect.
Materials Needed for Splashing Wax Resist
- Melted wax (paraffin, beeswax, or a blend).
- Fabric (e.g., cotton, silk).
- Dye bath.
- Tools for splashing: stiff brushes, old toothbrushes, sponges, foam pieces, or even flicking tools.
- Heat source for melting wax.
- Protective gear (gloves, apron, newspaper).
Procedure for Splashing Wax Resist
- Prepare the Fabric: Wash and dry the fabric to remove any sizing or impurities. Iron it smooth if necessary.
- Set up Work Area: Cover your work surface with newspaper or plastic sheets. Wear gloves and an apron for protection.
- Melt the Wax: Melt the wax in a double boiler or a dedicated wax pot. Ensure the wax is hot enough to flow freely but not smoking. (Note: Wax can be naturally brownish, or a brown dye can be added to the wax for visual effect during application).
- Prepare Splashing Tool: Dip your chosen tool (brush, sponge, foam) into the melted wax. Ensure it’s loaded with enough wax to create a splash but not dripping excessively.
- Apply Wax by Splashing:
- Hold the tool over the fabric and gently flick, tap, or shake it to create splashes, spatters, or droplets of wax onto the fabric.
- For “foam” effect, a sponge or foam piece can be used to dab or lightly press wax onto the fabric, creating a textured, foamy appearance.
- Vary the distance and force to create different sizes and densities of splashes.
- Allow Wax to Dry: Let the wax cool and harden completely on the fabric. This ensures it forms an effective resist.
- Prepare Dye Bath: Mix your chosen fabric dye according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Dye the Fabric: Carefully immerse the waxed fabric into the dye bath. Agitate gently to ensure even dyeing. The waxed areas will resist the dye.
- Rinse and Dry: Remove the fabric from the dye bath, rinse it thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Hang to dry.
- Remove the Wax: Once the fabric is dry, remove the wax. This can be done by ironing the fabric between layers of newspaper or absorbent paper, changing the paper frequently until all the wax is absorbed. Alternatively, some waxes can be boiled off.
- Final Rinse: Give the fabric a final rinse and dry it. The splashed patterns will be revealed as the original fabric colour or a lighter shade where the wax resisted the dye.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Demonstration, Explanation, Question and Answer, Observation
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Engaging/Recalling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the students and reviews their previous knowledge of batik and dyeing. The teacher then introduces the topic of different types of batik dyeing and specifically, resist techniques.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and listen attentively to the introduction.
Learning Point: Introduction to batik dyeing
Step 2: Types of Batik Dyeing
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Classification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the two main types of batik dyeing: direct dyeing and resist dyeing, highlighting that the lesson will focus on resist techniques.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, ask questions for clarification, and take brief notes.
Learning Point: Classification of batik dyeing
Step 3: Resist Techniques Overview
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what resist techniques are in batik, mentioning various resist agents like wax, starch, and tie-dyeing. The teacher then focuses on wax resist as the primary technique for the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe samples (if available), listen, and understand the concept of resist.
Learning Point: Understanding resist techniques
Step 4: Introduction to Wax Splashing
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Preparation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher introduces the specific method of wax resist by splashing, explaining what “brown or foam” might refer to in this context (wax colour or application texture).
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and prepare to observe the demonstration.
Learning Point: Wax splashing concept
Step 5: Demonstration of Wax Splashing Materials
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Identification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher displays and identifies all the materials needed for the wax splashing technique, explaining the function of each item, especially the tools for splashing.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the materials and listen to their uses.
Learning Point: Identification of splashing materials
Step 6: Demonstration of Wax Splashing Procedure
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modelling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher carefully demonstrates the step-by-step procedure of applying wax resist by splashing onto a piece of fabric, explaining each step clearly and emphasizing safety.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration closely, taking mental notes of the process and asking relevant questions.
Learning Point: Wax splashing procedure
Step 7: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:
- What is batik dyeing?
- Mention two types of batik dyeing methods.
- Explain what a resist technique is in batik.
- List three materials needed for wax resist splashing.
- Describe one step in the procedure for splashing wax resist.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Understanding batik resist techniques
Step 8: Note-Taking
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Writing
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils/students to copy the essential Board Summary notes on types of batik dyeing, resist techniques, and the procedure for wax resist by splashing into their notebooks.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils/students copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.
Learning Point: Recording lesson content
Step 9: Conclusion
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Consolidation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher briefly recaps the main points of the lesson, emphasizing the creativity and practical application of wax resist splashing in batik dyeing. The teacher encourages students to practice the technique.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and internalize the key concepts of the lesson.
Learning Point: Reinforcement of key concepts
Continuous Assessment/Further Study
Type: Homework/Practice Exercise
Instruction: Answer the following questions in your notebook and prepare to discuss them in the next class:
- Differentiate between direct dyeing and resist dyeing in batik.
- List the steps involved in removing wax from fabric after dyeing.
- Suggest three different tools that can be used to create a splashing effect with wax, apart from a brush.
- Explain the importance of safety precautions when working with hot wax and dyes.
Lesson Keywords
- Batik – A wax-resist dyeing technique for fabric.
- Resist Technique – A method where a substance prevents dye from reaching certain areas of fabric.
- Wax Resist – Using melted wax as the resist agent in batik.
- Splashing – A technique of applying wax by flicking or scattering it onto fabric to create random patterns.
- Dyeing – The process of imparting colour to textiles.
Differentiation
For students who grasp the concepts quickly, encourage them to research other resist techniques or explore different types of wax and their effects. For students needing additional support, provide simplified diagrams of the splashing process and offer one-on-one guidance during the demonstration.
Suggested Lesson Videos
Search YouTube for: batik wax splashing technique SS3

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