Experimental Surface Design
Abeykoon, Amali (2026)
2026
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202601302044
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202601302044
Tiivistelmä
This thesis explored experimental surface design methods using ice dyeing and ice-free dyeing techniques to create batik-inspired layered color effects within slow fashion context. Traditional batik holds strong cultural and aesthetic value, but its conventional process involves high water use, heated wax, and repeated dye baths, which can be difficult to apply in small-scale and lower-impact design practice. Therefore, this study focused on developing accessible alternatives that respect batik’s visual language while reducing reliance on energy-intensive steps.
A practice-based, qualitative research approach was used. Studio experiments were carried out on cotton fabric using ice dyeing as the starting method to observe how layered and diffused color effects could be achieved. Low-impact resist methods, including flour paste and thread resist, were introduced to explore batik-like crackle and pattern effects without using molten wax. To address the energy required for ice production, several ice-free dyeing adaptations were also developed and tested using diluted dyes and controlled color applications. A small number of exploratory tests with natural pigments were included to suggest directions for future sustainable development.
The findings showed that ice dyeing produced deeper contrasts and more unpredictable layered effects due to the slow melting process, while ice-free methods resulted in softer colors with clearer resist marks and greater control. Although neither method eliminated environmental impact completely, the ice-free adaptations avoided energy use related to freezing and demonstrated potential for more resource-conscious small-scale practice. Both approaches supported slow-fashion values by emphasizing cultural sustainability, craftsmanship, experimentation, and mindful making.
This study contributes practical insights into how batik-inspired aesthetics can be reinterpreted through experimental, low-impact surface design methods suitable for small-scale and craft-based fashion practice.
A practice-based, qualitative research approach was used. Studio experiments were carried out on cotton fabric using ice dyeing as the starting method to observe how layered and diffused color effects could be achieved. Low-impact resist methods, including flour paste and thread resist, were introduced to explore batik-like crackle and pattern effects without using molten wax. To address the energy required for ice production, several ice-free dyeing adaptations were also developed and tested using diluted dyes and controlled color applications. A small number of exploratory tests with natural pigments were included to suggest directions for future sustainable development.
The findings showed that ice dyeing produced deeper contrasts and more unpredictable layered effects due to the slow melting process, while ice-free methods resulted in softer colors with clearer resist marks and greater control. Although neither method eliminated environmental impact completely, the ice-free adaptations avoided energy use related to freezing and demonstrated potential for more resource-conscious small-scale practice. Both approaches supported slow-fashion values by emphasizing cultural sustainability, craftsmanship, experimentation, and mindful making.
This study contributes practical insights into how batik-inspired aesthetics can be reinterpreted through experimental, low-impact surface design methods suitable for small-scale and craft-based fashion practice.