What are traditional methods for making handmade robes?

Traditional methods of hand crafting robes vary by region, culture, and historical context. Two common techniques that allow artisans to create luxurious, wearable, highly-detailed robes are hand-painting and hand-stitching. In Bali, where the practice of making robes by hand has been passed down for generations, the traditional method of batik is a signature style. The Batik Tulis, for example, is a technique that utilizes wax-resistant dye that is then applied directly to the cloth. It is an intricate, patient process that can produce extraordinarily detailed pieces. Batik Cap is another classic technique where a copper stamp is repeatedly pressed with the wax-resistant dye onto the cloth. This process creates patterns on the garment that are then dip-dyed to saturate color into the unwaxed parts of the robe. Both batik techniques produce unique pieces that represent the incredible talent of our artisans in Bali.

What are the most popular designs for handmade robes?

Each region puts its signature mark on its handmade robes. In Thailand, for example, designs featuring geometric patterns and labyrinth motifs are trending. These patterns are hand-woven to create a ruched texture that highlights the intricacy of each garment. From Bali to Java, our artisans have seen their batik motifs become customer favorites. These wearable canvases feature both hand-painted and hand-printed designs, making for vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that allow for artisans and customers to showcase their individuality.

What robes are most comfortable?

The fit, feel, and fabric of a robe should transport you to a place of rest and relaxation. Novicas handmade robes exude comfort, because artisans attend to every detail with painstaking care. Robes made from silk, cotton, or rayon can provide high levels of comfort and versatility. One should look for breathability, absorbency, and versatility when purchasing a robe. Additionally, hypoallergenic fibers, like cotton, can provide comfort to those with sensitive skin. Whether one is looking for a lightweight fabric or a lavishly-woven robe, every handmade piece from Novica artisans brings an expressive twist to new styles and a fresh take on the classics.

How do I care for my handmade robe?

Handmade robes are fine, delicate pieces. These garments require a bit more care when it comes to laundering. Hand-washing in cold water always produces the best results. For machine wash, one can use cold water and the delicate cycle. Avoid twisting or harshly handling the fabric, and never use intense heat settings while drying the robe. Air drying while the fibers are laid flat will help to prevent excessive wear on the fabric, as well as preserve the vibrancy of the robes colors. Always dry a batik or hand-painted robe in the shade.

What is the historical background behind traditional robes?

The journey of the traditional robe throughout history is meandering and culturally specific. Here are just a few of the important stops along the way. In Japan, kimonos are an adaptable garment that have been a staple of cultural fashion since the Heian period. The robes from Bali are influenced by the classic Japanese kimono and yukata. The kimono is crafted with silk and worn over many layers in the winter while the yukata is a summer garment made with a single layer of cotton. Both of these styles reflect the artisans' take on a traditional style. In prehistoric Rome, robes were used to identify social status and to signify special ranks within communities. And by the 1700s, dressing gowns were a fashionable piece in the western wardrobe.

What are the most popular materials for making robes?

The most popular materials for crafting handmade robes are natural fibers such as silk and cotton. Because silk is a light-weight, water-resistant fiber, it provides the wearer a sense of luxury and comfort. Rayon is a natural-based material made up of an organic compound derived from cotton extract or wood pulp. This fiber is extremely durable, breathable, and cost effective. Cotton is celebrated for its comfortability and elasticity, and it provides excellent insulation. These fibers make for garments that exude luxury and relaxation.

Robes Cotton at NOVICA Canada

Bestseller

Moonlit Blossoms, 100% Cotton Artisan Batik Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$52.29CAD Wholesale

~~$72.99CAD~~ $52.29CAD
Featured Sale

Blue Diamonds, Diamond Embroidered Cotton Robe in Ash from Thailand

Size: XS,S/M,L/XL

Ying and Joy

(176)

$55.85CAD Wholesale

~~$73.99CAD~~ $55.85CAD
Bestseller

Floral Imagination, Cotton Robe with Printed Floral Motifs and Aquamarine Piping

Aftab

(164)

$56.99CAD Wholesale

$56.99CAD
Featured Sale

Relaxing Sangria, Embroidered Cotton Robe in Cerise and Strawberry

Size: XS,S/M

Ying and Joy

(176)

$61.02CAD Wholesale

~~$79.99CAD~~ $61.02CAD
Featured Sale

Nature Relaxation, Diamond Embroidered Cotton Robe in Chestnut from Thailand

Size: XS,S/M,L/XL

Ying and Joy

(176)

$61.02CAD Wholesale

~~$79.99CAD~~ $61.02CAD
Bestseller

Midnight Rest, Cotton Robe with Printed Leafy Motifs and Cerulean Piping

Aftab

(164)

$61.99CAD Wholesale

$61.99CAD
Featured Sale

Midnight Relaxation, Diamond Embroidered Cotton Robe in Midnight from Thailand

Size: XS,S/M,L/XL

Ying and Joy

(176)

$66.20CAD Wholesale

~~$86.99CAD~~ $66.20CAD
Bestseller

Nature Mandala, Cotton Robe with Printed Mandala Motifs and Dark Red Piping

Aftab

(164)

$68.99CAD Wholesale

$68.99CAD
Featured Sale

Forest Labyrinth, Green Cotton Robe

Size: 49" L x 21.5" W x 30.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Banlue Lueruang

(25)

$103.42CAD Wholesale

~~$137.99CAD~~ $103.42CAD
Bestseller

Bedeg, 100% Cotton Artisan Batik Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$110.99CAD Wholesale

$110.99CAD
Bestseller

Red Floral Kimono, Hand Made Batik Printed Cotton Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$111.99CAD Wholesale

$111.99CAD
Rainbow Paths, Hand-Stamped Rainbow Cotton Robe with Matching Belt

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$112.99CAD Wholesale

$112.99CAD
Bestseller

Midnight Fireworks, Men's Batik Cotton Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$114.99CAD Wholesale

$114.99CAD
Pebbles in a River, Short Cotton Batik Robe of Vibrant Blue and Rosy Hues

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$114.99CAD Wholesale

$114.99CAD
Coming back

Forest Growth, Hand-Stamped Batik Cotton Robe with Tie Belt

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$114.99CAD Wholesale

$114.99CAD
Coming back

Rushing River, Women's Batik Cotton Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$121.99CAD Wholesale

$121.99CAD
Bestseller

Earth Dancer, Handmade 100% Cotton Robe in Red Pink Tones from Indonesia

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$121.99CAD Wholesale

$121.99CAD
Bestseller

Blue Midnight, Men's Batik Belted Cotton Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$124.99CAD Wholesale

$124.99CAD
Midnight Sky, Men's Belted Cotton Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 55" Bust/chest x 28" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Ketut Suwitra

(80)

$124.99CAD Wholesale

$124.99CAD
Clear Night, Men's Hand Stamped Cotton Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 55" Bust/chest x 28" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Ketut Suwitra

(80)

$124.99CAD Wholesale

$124.99CAD
Bestseller

Night Bamboo, Bamboo Motif Cotton Robe in Grey from Bali

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$128.99CAD Wholesale

$128.99CAD
Coming back

Bull Snake, Men's Hand Made Batik Robe

Size: 54" L x 57" W x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$128.99CAD Wholesale

$128.99CAD
Star Quest, Men's Dark Blue and Yellow Batik Cotton Robe from Bali

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$128.99CAD Wholesale

$128.99CAD
Bestseller

Blue Forest, Artisan Crafted Long Batik Cotton Robe for Women

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$139.99CAD Wholesale

$139.99CAD
Bestseller

Red Floral Kimono, Women's Long Red Cotton Batik Wrap and Tie Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$139.99CAD Wholesale

$139.99CAD
Twilight Bloom, Purple and Brown Rayon Hand Crafted Batik Short Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$139.99CAD Wholesale

$139.99CAD
Lounge Time, Long Embroidered Cotton Robe from Bali

Size: L/XL

Made Suciati

(315)

$159.99CAD Wholesale

$159.99CAD

Featured Reviews

Men's cotton batik robe, 'Bedeg'

Steve

Jan 26, 2025

An Instant Favorite

I thought I wanted a Japanese men’s robe. Yet when I saw this robe on the NOVICA website, I kept returning to it to look at the lovely Indonesian design. When the robe arrived I was excited to see that the pattern was even more bold and vibrant than the online photo. The material is soft and light, super comfortable and a great fit. The robe arrived in a timely manner, beautifully packaged inside a cloth pouch, the same pattern of the robe, with a thank you card from NOVICA which included some Balinese words. This robe was for myself yet it would also make a great gift!

Cotton batik robe, 'Rushing River'

Patricia

May 10, 2017

Just what I wanted

Prettier than the picture even! Had only a plush robe to wear and was looking for something cooler yet pretty. It will pack nicely in my suitcase and I love the pockets too.

Art

Design

Robes