FAQ

  • The Batiqua Difference - Our Product Techniques

We are pleased to preserve the traditional batik technique, indigenous to the Zimbabwean people, through our team comprising of batik artists, painters, and tailors.  Our model is simply to use the skills we've learned to establish further economic good through a talented community. The extraordinary, ingenious batik technique is rooted in the staple food of Zimbabwe, called sadza [basically cooked cornmeal]. So unique that each piece, though similar, is different in display. The unique crackle effect on our textiles allows for the "touch" of each artist to be "cooked" into the product.


A thin layer of porridge is applied to create the designs. As it hardens, it cracks, leaving room for paint to penetrate the fabric once applied. The fabric (barkweave - which we create by weaving strands of cotton yarn together) is washed, and the excess porridge scraped off the cloth, leaving some parts which resist the paint. The resulting effect is extraordinary with every fabric having its own unique crackle effect and identity. The cloth is dried (either in the sun, or in a custom-built heater) before the tailors get to work in constructing the unique products you see in various stores and homes today - anything from cushion covers to bedspreads. Click the image below to watch the video of how products are individually created.


  • How do I take care of my BATIQUA batik products?

Our batiks can be hand or machine washed at room temperature (or with cold water). Our colours do not run out, but we do suggest you hang to dry so the cotton doesn't shrink. Iron warm, and treat it like a premium cotton shirt.

  • What is the difference between barkweave and cotton?

The main difference lies in the texture. Barkweave fabric is rough in texture because of the weaving technique we use. The barkweave products are usually fringed at the edges. Cotton, on the other hand is much smoother. All our cotton is 100% produced in Zimbabwe.

  • I am a retailer, and I would like to find out if you wholesale any of your collections?

We have created the wholesale member section to assist in your inquiry. You may also choose to contact us with your requests and we would be happy to assist you with setting up an account for your business.

     

    SHIPPING

    • We do not ship to P.O. Boxes.
    • You will receive 2 email notifications:
      1) When your order has been shipped.
      2) When your order has been shipped.
    • All orders are shipped using Standard Tracked shipping via UPS/Canada Post from British Columbia and arrive within 4-7 business days from confirmation.
    • Please allow up to 2 working days for your order confirmation to be processed.
    • If you have any special requests for your purchase, please email us at info@batiqua.com/+1778-533-3987 as soon as you place your order.

    RETURNS

    • We offer a 14-day EXCHANGE policy and a 3-day RETURN policy.
    • To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it.
    • To complete your return, we require your receipt or proof of purchase.
    • Please email us at info@batiqua.com to begin the return process.