Fabric Painting

The two most popular methods is sponge painting and splatter painting. Sponging is done with a natural sponge that is moistened with paint or dye and then applied directly to the fabric in dabbing motions. Splatter painting is done by shaking a paint-covered brush at or over the fabric.

The type of paint or dye you use will depend on what type of fabric you are decorating. There are many types of paints including opaque, metallic, dimensional and even paints that are designed for dark fabrics. Most paint is packaged in bottles and jars. Paint pens are also available and are handy for outlining or for painting small areas.

Basic How-To’s
Begin with a good quality fabric such as cotton, linen, silk, or wool. The fabric should be white or unbleached. Do not use treated fabrics that have a chemical finish. Always prewash the fabric before painting. Use warm water and a mild detergent to wash the fabric. Dry it and then press with an iron to remove any wrinkles.

Most fabric paints require some type of permanent fixation after painting. Read the directions. Most are heat-set with an iron and then finished up with your clothes dryer.

Sponge Painting
Only use natural sponges. The finer the grain on the sponge the more detail in the decorating will be. You can purchase pre-cut sponges in different shapes and sizes at an arts and craft store.

Dip one side of the sponge into the paint that has been poured into a disposable tray. Let the paint soak into the sponge but do not saturate it. Use dabbing motions and apply lightly but with enough pressure to transfer the paint to the fabric.

For precise, detailed sponging squeeze a line of paint along widest edge of the sponge. Use a hard piece of plastic to drag paint evenly across the sponge. This is more time-consuming but will give you a nice and even application. Practice sponging on fabric scraps first to learn how the sponge works.

Splatter Painting
This is a quick way to cover any fabric piece with flecks of paint for a textured effect. You can use a single color or a multitude of colors.

Paint needs to be thinned out to create a watery consistency. Generally two parts paint to one part water is a good mix. Always test on a scrap of fabric before painting the actual surface. The paint’s consistency when spattered should form spots that do not run.

You should use a long-handled stencil brush for spatter painting. For experimenting you can also use toothbrushes, scrub brushes, etc.

For a large splatter effect shake the brush directly at the surface with a flicking motion. For a more controlled splatter use a paint-stirring stick along with the paintbrush. Hit the stick with the paint-covered brush to cause the paint to splatter. For a fine splatter dip a toothbrush in paint and rub the bristles with the blade of a butter knife.

To splatter with more than one color start with the lightest paint color first and work your way up to the darker colors. Let dry between colors.

Fabric painting is a great way to decorate home furnishings and apparel items to create one-of-a-kind looks.