Tuesday, November 04, 2014

The Balinese Cloths Batik

Many people who to Bali ask for "Balinese Batik". But in f act batik was never really made in from Bali until recently, and even today most batik comes from Java. Balinese batik is usually found on colorful bedspreads and sarongs with designs of anything from Bart Simpson to the Sun and Moon. To buy traditional batik sarongs, go to the market in Denpasar. However, check them carefully as there are many cheap print imitations.


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The Balinese Cloths Pelangi


Another traditional technique now fast-disappearing is is pelangi of tie-dye. By tying off sections of cloth to prevent it from coming into contact with the dye, beautiful patterns are created. Silk cloth is usually used.


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The Balinese Cloths Prada

Prada cloths is identified by gold designs on batik cloth. Originally the cloth was made with gold but now it is painted using imitation gold coloring, usually on polyester, for use in making fans and hotel decorations. Most Balinese dance costumes are also made of prada. A good place to buy prada is the Sukawati Art market.

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The Balinese Cloths Songket

 Songket is a technique by which gold or silver threads are woven into the cloth or ikat. It usually comes in 2-metre lengths for use as sarongs or long scarves by Balinese women in ceremonies. Antique cloths  can also be found, but are rarely in good condition. New songket of various quality are still woven in Klungkung. Quality is, of course, reflected in the price. If the item is cheap, this means the songket is loosely woven. Remember that the best quality can cost over 3.000.000 Rupiah.


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