No Fabric Paint? No Problem! Try A Homemade Solution
If you're searching for an easy way to upgrade your textiles without purchasing fabric paint, consider combining two readily available solutions. Whether you want to revamp a pillow, throw blanket, or an item of clothing, adding illustrations or designs can give any piece of fabric a brand-new look. There are DIY paint hacks worth trying if you don't want to purchase a fresh tube of fabric paint. All you need is fabric softener and acrylic paint to start.
Most fabric paint is actually acrylic-based, which means your average acrylic paint is a good place to start. Try combining a one-to-one ratio, making sure the two liquids are completely mixed before painting. Always work in layers to get your desired opacity. When it comes to selecting the right brushes for applying your mixture, go with a brush that has synthetic bristles as natural brushes could get damaged. Tight woven fabrics, like 100% cotton, tend to be a safe bet when it comes to the best fabric to apply your mixture. Avoid loosely woven fabrics if you want an intense finish.
What to consider before painting with a DIY mixture
You may need to adjust the ratio of paint to fabric softener depending on your project. If you are painting a small design, more paint will result in a thicker consistency and more saturated result. However, if you are trying to cover an entire piece of furniture or textile, it is recommended to use 1 part paint to 2 parts fabric softener for an even, spreadable wash. Practice the ratio on small areas so you can see what best suits your unique fabric. If you're on the fence as to whether you should paint an upholstered piece, there are pros and cons of painting fabric furniture to consider.
Besides fabric softener, there are other liquids you can use to give acrylic paint a fabric-friendly finish. A common method is purchasing a bottle of fabric medium, like the Pouring Masters Professional Effects Fabric Medium, and mixing it with your acrylic paint. You can also try mixing 2 parts acrylic paint with 1 part glycerin and 1 part water for a DIY solution. Before you get started, make sure to check out 11 tips to know before you start painting fabric.