Journals Proceedings

Abstract

Batik is a method of drawing using canting and cap to create intricate designs on textiles, generally cotton, dyeing it whereas patterned areas are covered with wax so that they will not receive color. In a deeper meaning, batik is not only the pattern on clothes, but it is more about technique and process. In Indonesia, the technique is an ancient method, which has been practiced since prehistoric times. Nowadays the technique has been improved but still left some constraints during the process and consumes a lot of time. This phenomenon causes that young people and young children are not really keen in learning how to make batik using the traditional technique, even though they love to wear batik clothes. Some batik museums in Indonesia provide huge collections and conduct regular workshop of making batik. However, the lack of opportunity to teach and transfer the skills of making batik is still problematic. This paper shares the preliminary concept of a digital tool designed to support young children in learning to make batik patterns by themselves. The software is supposed to be a gamebased learning environment, which offers children the opportunity to carry out each step of the traditional technique. At the same time it avoids the complex problems occurring during the long processes and tight sequences in producing batik pattern. In addition, the software should be enjoyable, inviting for beginners, offering at the same time numerous batik shapes and great variations of color and shade to be rich enough for continuous usage. In the end of this research, the software is supposed to be installed within the Museum Batik Pekalongan in Indonesia, as one of the research fields for the study.