Maplewood Business: Stellar Batik

Business: Stellar Batik

What is Batik? Batik is an ancient art form that uses a wax-resistant dyeing technique to create one-of-a-kind designs on cloth. Stellar Batik’s process begins with high quality, 100% cotton fabric. Every image is drawn freehand by Stellar Batik with melted wax on a piece of fabric. After the wax hardens, each item is hand painted and then waxed over to seal in the colors. In the dyeing process, the color is unable to fully penetrate the design. However, as the wax bends, it begins to crack, which allows some of the dye to organically seep through. After dyeing, the fabric is boiled in soap and water to remove the wax. This process shrinks the fabric which further sets in the dye. Through our process of batik, an ordinary piece of fabric is transformed into a unique and colorful garment.

How did you get into Batik? I was first exposed to batik by working for a Batik company as their primary garment painter. After I left I thought about the art form for years.  I eventually self educated myself on the whole process; a lot of trial and error.

Your website says that you are “eco-loyal” what does that mean for your business? Stellar Batik does its best to be as low impact as possible to the Earth.  For instance we use the labor intensive process of putting each garment in boiling water to remove the wax unlike other Batik companies who use dry cleaners.

How long does the Batik process take? The whole Batik process can take around 3 days from start to finish.  It is a 7 step process that I usually do in big batches.

Tell me about the Batik parties. During parties guests are able to come in and use our comfortable studio for two hours.  We are able to inform and highlight the beautiful Batik process.The guests chooses a design ahead of time.  They then have the opportunity to personalize their own garment by painting with our bright colorful dyes.  The style and creativity of each individual comes out in each piece.  Parties are a lot of fun and a great bonding experience.

Are there any Maplewood businesses that you’ve done work for? We have been honored to do work for great Mapelwood businesses such as Schlafly Bottleworks,  Foundation Grounds Coffee House, Stone Spiral Coffee House

Is there anything else that you want people to know about your business? Stellar Batik is a small mom and pop business that loves being a part of the wonderful community of Maplewood.  Our business has had the opportunity to flourish and grow here we are so proud and grateful.

Can you show us photos of some of your favorite works?

Some of my favorite work are the  shirts we have done for Grammy awarded band Steep Canyon Rangers!

Click here to go to Stellar Batik's website.