Batik Blocks: Alternative Use of Recycled Mechanical Fastener Nut Materials

Batik blocks are tools used by batik makers to apply and shape pattern designs on fabric. The production of batik patterns is usually done using resist techniques such as batik blocks, batik canting, and batik screens. Batik blocks are among the earliest forms of batik introduced and produced in Malaysia. This study aims to apply recycled mechanical fastener nuts material as an alternative to batik blocks. The primary focus is on producing blocks using recycled fastener nuts material in the making of batik blocks. The block production process follows the same method as traditional copper blocks but uses fastener nuts as a new alternative material. The aim of exploring this new material aims to assess the potential of recycled mechanical fastener nuts material for reuse. This can provide ideas and innovation to the batik industry enriching motifs and pattern designs in Malaysia, as well as helping to find the identity of Malaysian batik. Data was collected from observations and the gathering of recycled mechanical fastener nut materials from vehicle and motorcycle workshops. Several block production processes were conducted in stages. The research findings indicate that mechanical fastener nuts have the potential to be used as batik blocks. Hopefully, this research can assist batik entrepreneurs, especially the younger generation, in promoting the batik industry by exploring more material uses in block production.