Which fabric achieves a unique wax-resist look and is described as expensive, used for shirts and skirts?

Which fabric achieves a unique wax-resist look and is described as expensive, used for shirts and skirts?

• A. Batik
• B. Ikat
• C. Calico
• D. Ripstops

Answer: (A)

Wax-resist dyeing creates patterns by applying a substance like melted wax to the fabric before dyeing, so the wax blocks the dye and the treated areas stay light while the rest takes color. Batik is the fabric most closely tied to this technique, producing a distinctive, often intricate look that feels hand-made because the wax application and dyeing happen in stages. The process is labor-intensive and time-consuming—multiple colors require repeating the wax–dye steps and then removing the wax—so batik is often described as expensive. This technique is well known for clothing like shirts and skirts, where the unique patterns can be showcased. In contrast, Ikat uses yarn-resist tied before weaving, which yields a different edge quality; Calico is a plain cotton with simple prints, not wax-resist; and Ripstop refers to a reinforced weave pattern rather than a wax-dye effect.

Wax-resist dyeing creates patterns by applying a substance like melted wax to the fabric before dyeing, so the wax blocks the dye and the treated areas stay light while the rest takes color. Batik is the fabric most closely tied to this technique, producing a distinctive, often intricate look that feels hand-made because the wax application and dyeing happen in stages. The process is labor-intensive and time-consuming—multiple colors require repeating the wax–dye steps and then removing the wax—so batik is often described as expensive. This technique is well known for clothing like shirts and skirts, where the unique patterns can be showcased. In contrast, Ikat uses yarn-resist tied before weaving, which yields a different edge quality; Calico is a plain cotton with simple prints, not wax-resist; and Ripstop refers to a reinforced weave pattern rather than a wax-dye effect.