Batik tie and dye fabrics used to be the toast of many people but appears to have gone out of fashion, as the popularity of western clothes has grown over the years.

Characterised by bright colours and unique patterns, these fabrics were most preferred for outfits from shirts for men to women’s floor length designs.

Most traders who buy these fabrics in bulk and distribute to other buyers have complained about low patronage of the fabric in recent times.

A batik top 

A manufacturer of tie and dye, Kwesi Dankyi, who spoke to Joy FM's Kuuku Abban said he has made a living from the production of the fabric for the past 15 years but his output has reduced drastically over the years and he is unable to make profit to sustain the production.

Some traders also said they made a lot of money from selling the fabric some years ago but have lost out to fake clothing imported from China.

A hand bag made from batik

They explained that the uniqueness of the fabric, and its quality, won the hearts of many foreigners who normally bought and sent them to their countries for the further manufacture of items like bags, shoes as well as accessories.

The traders accused some manufacturers of sending the designs to China where lesser qualities of the fabric are made and imported back into the country and sold at cheaper prices.

Batik shirts drying in the sun

Tie-and-dye, as it's popularly called, often comes in bright, saturated primary colours as well as bold but sophisticated patterns.

Some patrons of the fabric said they lost interest in it because manufacturers used inferior products in its manufacture. This, they say causes the fabric to fade when they are washed.

But Mr Dankyi explained that the tie and dye rather looks nicer when it is washed frequently and could be kept for three to four years if handled properly.