Batik canting or tjanting tools
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A batik canting, or tjanting as it is more commonly known, is the oldest recorded tool used exclusively for batik. It is also the most popular tool used in making batik. The tjanting originated on the island of Java and the word tjanting comes from the Javanese word tjap, which in reference to the intricate patterns that are creating by using this particular batik tool, means to dot. They are also sometimes referred to as wax pens or needles..
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Batik tools typically consist of a wooden handle on one end with a metal reservoir on the other end. The Javanese invented the first tjanting, which resembles a pen with a reservoir inside. In addition to the Javanese design, a few other reservoir designs have been developed over the years by the French, Dutch, Belgians and others. Some of these designs resemble funnels while some resemble bowls and some are even made of glass. No matter what shape the reservoir is the tip of the reservoir has a capillary opening that allows hot melted wax to flow from the reservoir on to the fabric or other object where the design is being created.
The batik tool is held in a manner similar to the way you would hold a pen and is used by tilting the tool up or down to control the flow of the wax. The circumference of the capillary opening at the end of the tool controls the width of the line that is made when the tool is in use. Some artists will even use pliers to pinch the end of the capillary opening to suit their needs and preferences.
Electric batik tools are also available from fiber arts supply companies. These tjanting tools keep the wax at a constant temperature creating optimal wax flow and eliminate the need for alcohol burners or a wax pot to heat the wax.
Although, they are used primarily to create designs on fabric they can also be used in creating batik eggs and some artists even use them to create resist patterns on their pottery or wooden sculptures.
The batik tool is held in a manner similar to the way you would hold a pen and is used by tilting the tool up or down to control the flow of the wax. The circumference of the capillary opening at the end of the tool controls the width of the line that is made when the tool is in use. Some artists will even use pliers to pinch the end of the capillary opening to suit their needs and preferences.
Electric batik tools are also available from fiber arts supply companies. These tjanting tools keep the wax at a constant temperature creating optimal wax flow and eliminate the need for alcohol burners or a wax pot to heat the wax.
Although, they are used primarily to create designs on fabric they can also be used in creating batik eggs and some artists even use them to create resist patterns on their pottery or wooden sculptures.
