Paraffin Wax 450g (1 lb.)

This paraffin wax is sold in bead form for easy melting and measuring.

Paraffin wax is the wax that gives the characteristic crackle effect in batik work. It is inexpensive and has a low melting point. When used on its own, paraffin is brittle and sensitive to the alkali in dye baths. It is stronger and more effective when it is mixed with other waxes. An excellent wax recipe for batik is 50% beeswax and 50% paraffin wax. A general - all-purpose recipe is 33% beeswax, 33% paraffin and 33% microcrystalline wax. Excellent applicators for applying hot wax are the Japanese Rofude brushes and the many varieties of tjanting tools. Wax requires ironing, boiling or dry-cleaning to remove.

Our favorite way to melt wax is by using an electric fry pan (one with a working thermostat), as it is easy to work from, control the temperature and to store wax in for future use. Wax can also be melted directly in a small metal container placed over a Bunsen burner, or on a heating element. Do not exceed the melting point of 260° F., as the wax will begin to break down and discolor the fabric, and too high a temperature will cause unnecessary toxic smoke and possibly ignite. PROPER VENTILATION IN YOUR WORK AREA IS A MUST WHEN WORKING WITH HOT