Step-by-Step on how to Create these:
Koinobori Fish
I decided to do this project with my Art Club because it's very time consuming, requires students to use hot wax and it's just COOL. I wanted them to create something they could have and hang up. Here's the steps I used, but of course it can be altered to fit the needs of your students and classroom.
The background of the Koinobori Fish:
Koinobori Fish are hung outside homes in Japan. They decorate the landscape of Japan from April through early May, in honor of Children's Day on May 5. In Japanese culture, the carp symbolizes courage and strength because of its ability to swim up a waterfall.
Materials:
Thick White Paper
Newspaper
Iron
Paintbrushes
Metal Eye Dropper
Batik Wax
Newspaper
Iron
Paintbrushes
Metal Eye Dropper
Batik Wax
- Different types that I have used are:
Jacquard Batik Wax and/or Jacquard Bees Wax and/or Batik Wax
*NOTE: You can also use: Batik Resist EZ, but I only recommend this on fine detail areas.
Wax Melter Kit - I absolutely love this product and recommend you get one.
Jacquard Dye Pack (variety of colors)
Steps:
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- Then outlined it in sharpie so they would be able to see the design through the fabric.
- I also had them mark their color choices before hand. This made it easier for them to choose dye when ready.
*NOTE: I put a limit on colors to 4-5 so it wouldn't get to busy.
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3. Fabric was cut slightly larger than the paper. I had students attach the fabric with paper clips onto their paper design. This kept the fabric from moving while batiking.
4. We used two methods of applying the batik wax: metal eyedropper and paint brushes. The EZ resist was applied using small containers with metal tips on the end which allowed for ease in control of the liquid since it spreads.
5. After all batiking wax and resist was complete, students began dyeing. I use small disposable cups with lids to pour dye in. This kept it easy to distribute and allow students the chance to use the colors they wanted without having to move around the room. Their paper stayed clipped to the fabric so it helped them remember colors and soaked up excess dye. Dye was applied using paint brushes.
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7. After wax removed, resist was washed off. Using hot/war water all pieces were washed by hand to remove all EZ resist then hung to dry.
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9. I went the extra step to sew the edges and add a bowl rod for hanging to the top.
I will post all the final pieces soon so check back in a week to see the results:)