Beautiful Batik on Paper and Fabric

Service Description

Next promoted date: Saturday 28th February 2026 Saturday 25th April 2026. Batik is an ancient textile technique originating in Indonesia and its use then spread to many other countries, with each putting a different cultural slant on the choice of images and their outcomes. The pattern was traditionally applied onto cloth using molten wax with fine brushes or tools called tjantings, which are copper vessels with a small spout that the wax flows out from to create a lovely fluid line. Coloured dyes are then applied to the fabric. As a successful textile designer, Alison Butler used this process on paper, to create highly original and decorative textile designs for the fashion industry. In this Batik workshop, we will be exploring the beautiful shapes of seed heads and summer flowers. You will start by creating a range of smaller experimental samples and unique outcomes on different papers. This will enable you to explore the process and gain confidence with your skills, before creating a larger final piece. You will also be given the opportunity to explore working on fabric as well. These pieces can then be embellished with hand or machine embroidery at home. The workshop will be delivered by Alison Butler of Blooming Designs. With over 25 years as a textile designer and illustrator, Alison will skilfully guide you through a range of exciting approaches. The workshop will be held in a C18th Long Barn on our working farm in the Meon Valley. It is an inspirational building in the beautiful South Downs National Park. This workshop is suitable for those with a range of skills and creative experiences, from beginners to those looking to improve and extend their batik skills. Please bring along: an apron, ideas and images relating to your chosen theme and an A3 folder to transport your work home. ​ The workshop will include tuition, materials and use of equipment, refreshments served throughout the day; runs from 10 - 4pm and costs £99, just bring your lunch.