So, you’re planning on a new clothing hack DIY project where you need to paint fabric.
While there’s special fabric paint, leather paint, and fabric dye out there, you might want a permanent solution for your fabric.
You’re probably wondering if acrylic paint is the right choice for the job.
The short answer is yes, you can use acrylic paint on fabric. However, there are a few things you need to do to make sure the paint stays put and doesn’t ruin your clothes, tapestries, upholstery, etc.
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Also read what paint to use on plastic surfaces.
What is acrylic paint?
Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion.
Acrylic paints are water-soluble but become water-resistant when dry.
While you probably know that craft acrylic paints are used to paint on canvas, they can also be used on other surfaces like fabric, textiles, wood, metal, and even ceramics.
Also, people like to use acrylic paint for decorative painting tasks like stenciling because it can be easily removed from non-porous surfaces like glass.
The paint colors can be mixed and are generally easy to work with, so it’s no wonder people use this type of paint for many DIY and craft projects.
Is it possible to use acrylic paint on fabric?
Yes, it’s possible to use acrylic paint on fabric to give it the color you want.
Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including fabric and textiles.
When used on fabric, acrylic paint will remain permanently flexible and stretchable, without cracking or flaking.
It can be applied to both natural and synthetic fabrics and is available in a wide range of colors.
When it’s wet, the paint looks dull and can appear to be a different shade, but it dries quickly to its true color.
But, when wet, it can be easily removed from clothing, skin, and other surfaces. However, once dried, acrylic fabric paint is permanent.
Fabric is made of fibers, so it’s important to understand how the paint will interact with the fabric before you start painting.
Now that we know it’s possible to use acrylic paint on fabric, let’s talk about how to do so.
How to use acrylic paint on fabric and textiles
To use acrylic paint on fabric, you will need:
– Something to mix the paint and fabric medium together
– A brush / brush set
Treat the fabric with medium
To start, you need to treat the fabric with a fabric medium. This will not only help the paint adhere to the fabric but also make the paint more flexible so it doesn’t crack or peel.
Mix the fabric medium and acrylic paint together according to the package directions.
You can also make your own fabric medium by mixing one part acrylic paint with two parts water.
Once you’ve mixed the fabric medium and paint together, use a brush to apply it to the fabric.
Once you’ve applied the paint and fabric medium mixture to the fabric, let it dry.
The paint will take longer to dry on fabric than it would on other surfaces like paper or canvas.
Wash and dry fabric
Once the paint is dry, you can wash the fabric as usual.
Wash and dry the fabric before painting to remove any oils or residues that may prevent the paint from adhering properly.
Wash the fabric in cold water with a mild detergent.
You can then dry the fabric on a low heat setting or air dry it.
This step is necessary if you want the acrylic paint to be permanent.
Paint the fabric
Now that the fabric is clean and dry, you’re ready to start painting.
To paint the fabric, use a classic paint brush or another painting tool like a sponge brush to apply the paint to the fabric.
You can use a variety of painting techniques, like stippling, to create different effects.
Once you’ve applied the paint to the fabric, let it dry.
As with the fabric medium, the paint will take longer to dry on fabric than it would on other surfaces.
You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer set on low heat.
Set the paint
Once the paint is dry, you can iron the fabric to set the paint.
This step is optional but will help to make the paint more durable.
To set the paint, put a piece of paper or cardboard inside the fabric so the paint doesn’t transfer to the iron.
Then, set the iron to a low heat setting and iron the fabric for two to three minutes.
Let the fabric cool before using it.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully used acrylic paint on fabric.
Best fabric and acrylic paint projects
Now that you know how to use acrylic paint on fabric, what will you make?
Here are some ideas for fabric and acrylic paint projects:
– Painted t-shirts
– Painted canvas shoes
– Painted tote bags (you can use stencils to paint)
– Painted pillow covers
– Painted curtains
– Painted tablecloth
With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless. So, get started on your next project and have fun!
FAQs
Here are some of your curiosities answered about using acrylic paint on fabric!
What is the best way to apply acrylic paint to fabric?
There are a few different ways that you can apply acrylic paint to fabric. One way is to use a brush and simply paint it on like you would with any other type of paint.
Another way is to use a sponge brush. This will give your fabric a different look and feel.
You can also use a spray bottle to apply the paint to your fabric. This is a great way to get a consistent coat of paint on your fabric.
Is acrylic paint on fabric permanent?
Acrylic paint on fabric is permanent when it is heat set.
This means that you need to use a iron or other heat setting method to set the paint in the fabric so that it will not come out in the wash.
If you do not heat set the paint, it will eventually fade and wash out of the fabric.
What is the best way to set acrylic paint on fabric?
The best way to set acrylic paint on fabric is to use a iron or other heat setting method.
This will ensure that the paint is set in the fabric and will not come out in the wash.
Can I wash my fabric after I paint it?
You can wash your fabric after you paint it, but you need to make sure that you have heat set the paint first.
If you do not heat set the paint, it will eventually fade and wash out of the textiles.
What happens if you paint acrylic on fabric?
The fabric becomes a bit stiff, but it’s still usable. It’s better to use a fabric medium to mix with the paint though so that it doesn’t become as stiff.
One of the reasons people avoid using acrylic paint for clothing like t-shirts is that they take on a rougher, stiffer texture which may feel uncomfortable on the skin.
If you’re okay with that or are looking for a funky costume piece, go ahead and give it a try!
Final thoughts
Now that you know how to do it, why not experiment with different colors and painting techniques?
You can even use acrylic paint on clothing to create your own unique designs. Just be sure to wash and dry the fabric before painting and to set the paint with an iron if you want it to be permanent.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful works of art using acrylic paint on fabric.