Batik fabrics have particular appeal to quilters and fabric artists.  My daughter seeks them out in stores and even dyes some of her own.
These unique fabrics have been around for about 2000 years and generally are made in the Far East.  Indonesia is particularly noted for its hand dyed batiks, with each bolt of fabric slightly different from another.
Quilters and fabric artists who like to experiment with new styles and patterns are especially fond of batiks.  Many, like my daughter, enjoy creating their own.
Some more information on batiks:
Batik Fabrics for Your Quilts
Batik
All About Batik Fabric