These approximately 50 year old tools called Tjaps, have been made and used on the island of Java for perhaps centuries. They are handmade of copper strips, carefully cut and shaped and soldered into fabulous shapes and patterns. The copper ones are used by Batik artists in Java by dipping them into hot wax, shaking off the excess, and then stamping the wax onto the cloth. Aligning the edges of each consecutive stamp creates patterns which run the length and width of the fabric. We ourselves have also successfully used them with Presist, thickened dye and fabric paint, as well as to stamp glue for application of foil and glitter. Soy wax worked really well, and you can just wash it off with soap and hot water when done! These are so beautiful and rare in this country, that some folks are just collecting them to look at!

Also available are the hand carved wooden Tjaps or Stamps from Indonesia. They can range in age from about 10 to 50 years and have been used in Indonesia for a variety of applications. The current shipment are spares that were never used by the factories they were made for because a lot of them closed. Although they could possibly be used for wax if the wax was hot enough (and you could get it on the fabric before it cools), we think they are actually better for stamping with paint, like Versatex Printing Ink, or for stamping with a water based resist like Presist or Inko Resist (Then you color the fabric by painting on the dyes, rather than submersion). They are also just pretty to look at! A spray Varathane (or the equivilant) will help preserve and protect them, as well as help them print better and be more washable.

We have some beautiful wood ones left - Check them out, there are still some great designs. The copper ones are extremely rare and hard to get in this country. The copper ones are getting even more difficult to find good patterns, so we have almost sold out of our most recent shipment already. We are currently selecting some for an unexpected 2nd shipment that will be here before Christmas. They will make great gifts. If you already own some, you should still look, because who knows, you might find another you can't live without! Please, no returns on these unique items.

Enjoy viewing these lovely items!