cotton batik fabric
About
Cotton batik fabric is probably the most commonly used fabric for creating many different types batik. It is made from a plant based cellulose fiber that is grown in pods called bolls. It is believed that cotton was first domesticated approximately 7000 years ago. With the invention of the cotton gin and eventually cotton harvesting machinery the popularity and demand for cotton soared making cotton fabric one of the most popular types of fabric in the world. While it did feel some heat from the invention of synthetic fibers, it has in recent years regained its status as the most popular fabric in the U.S. and one of the most popular fabrics in the world. Cotton can be woven in several different types of fabric, many of which are great for batik work.
Cotton batik fabric is probably the most commonly used fabric for creating many different types batik. It is made from a plant based cellulose fiber that is grown in pods called bolls. It is believed that cotton was first domesticated approximately 7000 years ago. With the invention of the cotton gin and eventually cotton harvesting machinery the popularity and demand for cotton soared making cotton fabric one of the most popular types of fabric in the world. While it did feel some heat from the invention of synthetic fibers, it has in recent years regained its status as the most popular fabric in the U.S. and one of the most popular fabrics in the world. Cotton can be woven in several different types of fabric, many of which are great for batik work.
Advantages
Cotton is light, airy and affordable. It takes dye well and can be used in many different applications including table linens to light weight beachwear and accessories. It is a great choice for those who are interested in using natural fibers and fabric using organic cotton is becoming increasingly easy to find. If you want natural, light and airy then cotton is a great choice.
Disadvantages
While cotton is a great choice for many batikers, it does have some disadvantages. The phrase “cotton kills” is a one commonly heard among military and outdoors types. The reason for this is two fold. First, it is not a good insulator, which means that if you are using it in outdoor applications that require one to stay warm it will not do a very good job. The second reason that cotton can be a problem when using it for clothing is that it retains water. Meaning that if you are already cold it can possibly make you colder because it once the cotton fabric is wet, it compacts down and does not create the loft needed to trap air and insult your body.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a fabric to create wall hangings, accessories or light beach clothes then cotton should be your go to fabric. If something warmer or something that insulates better is required then stay away!
Cotton is light, airy and affordable. It takes dye well and can be used in many different applications including table linens to light weight beachwear and accessories. It is a great choice for those who are interested in using natural fibers and fabric using organic cotton is becoming increasingly easy to find. If you want natural, light and airy then cotton is a great choice.
Disadvantages
While cotton is a great choice for many batikers, it does have some disadvantages. The phrase “cotton kills” is a one commonly heard among military and outdoors types. The reason for this is two fold. First, it is not a good insulator, which means that if you are using it in outdoor applications that require one to stay warm it will not do a very good job. The second reason that cotton can be a problem when using it for clothing is that it retains water. Meaning that if you are already cold it can possibly make you colder because it once the cotton fabric is wet, it compacts down and does not create the loft needed to trap air and insult your body.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a fabric to create wall hangings, accessories or light beach clothes then cotton should be your go to fabric. If something warmer or something that insulates better is required then stay away!
