Resist-dyed textile

Description

A traditional method to apply colors or patterns to textiles. A 'resist' is used to prevent the dye from accessing specific areas of the cloth. Resist methods include:

Tie dye: One method involves pinching a portion of fabric then tying it tightly with a waxed thread or rubber bands. The fabric is dyed, then the ties are removed revealing circular areas of the original fabric. The process can be repeated with multiple colors. It has been used extensively in India where it is called 'bandhani'. An alternate method stitches or folds the cloth in a pattern, like a fan, then places the ties in intervals.

Ikat: A method that uses resist-techniques to dye the yarns prior to weaving. The resist can be done on individual yarns or on bundles that have been tightly wrapped and bound. The variable colored yarns produce a blurred design. Either the warp or weft or both yarns (double) can be dyed by this method.

Applied resist: A method in which a resistant material such as rice paste (tsutsugaki), beeswax (batik), soot (pouncing), mud, etc. is applied in patterns to the fabric to prevent the dye from reaching sections. The resistant material is then removed leaving the original fabric.

Screen print: A method that uses a physical shield, such as a stencil, to protect the fabric as the dye is applied. Repeated printings with separate stencils are used to create multi-colored patterns.

Examples include bandu, Batik, Ikat, and Shibori.