Indonesia is world-renowned for its colorful patterned batik and ikat textiles. Both can be purchased in a full range of prices and quality, from mass-produced machine-printed batik souvenir sarongs to hand-woven and hand-painted ikat textiles taking months to complete. There is even a patterned textile painted with gold, called prada, for special ceremonies. Many visitors purchase ready-made lengths of batik fabric for sarongs or table covers; those wishing to create their own garments or home decor items can buy custom lengths of fabric. UNESCO has recognized batik as one of the world's heritage culture traditions for the region.
Visitors can purchase bamboo baskets, place mats, and other woven items for kitchen and home use. Bamboo also is used to make traditional Indonesian flutes. Intricately-carved wooden statues — often stylized representations of local characters (fishermen, farmers) or decorative replicas of costumed ceremonial figures — are another very popular Indonesian souvenir. Small, extensively detailed carvings of the tiered rice paddies are unusual souvenirs and less readily available, but often are excellent examples of native craftsmanship.
Indonesia's traditional masks are usually hand-painted and used during ceremonial dances. Souvenir versions can be either mass-produced or hand-made; the prices for the latter are considerably higher, reflecting their hand-painting and one-of-a-kind nature. String puppets, known as wayang puppets, are used in traditional puppet shows depicting national myths and folktales; their prices also run the gamut, depending on their intricacy and quality. Music fans may purchase a gamelan, a musical ensemble typically from the islands of Bali or Java, featuring a variety of instruments such as xylophones, drums and gongs, bamboo flutes and plucked strings.
The ikat textiles originate in Bali and Java, and the batik fabrics come from Bali. Both are available in markets and stores in many of Indonesia's cities. Purchase basic sarongs and lengths of fabric at local markets such as the Ubud Market in Bali — be prepared to haggle over the price. The country's two most famous wood-carving centers, Tegalang and Mas, offer everything from small intricately carved boxes through very large figurines and statues. However, these are also readily available in Bali and other tourist areas. Bamboo items are readily available in both markets and regular stores. Those uncomfortable with haggling over prices can purchase their souvenirs in more modern shopping centers, but should be prepared to pay higher prices.
