The Handicrafter

Painting on fabric is a craft idea that’s loads of fun for both children and adults.  Non-toxic, brightly coloured paints can transform the plain t-shirt into a personal fashion statement.  Children can creatively express their own unique personality.  Their artwork  can be worn again and again.    

Here’s how to get started with fabric painting.

Supplies:

o T-shirt, sweatshirt, canvas bag, or even a pillow case.

o Fabric paint  non-toxic, water soluble

o Paint brushes, sponges

o Cardboard

o Paper plate or pie tin to hold paint.

Start with a simple t-shirt.  White isn’t the only option, any colour will do.  The key is to make sure the fabric is at least 50% cotton.  The paint will adhere more easily to natural fibres rather than synthetic.  The painted design will last longer and survive through more washing than if it were done on are 100% synthetic fibre.

Most paint manufacturers recommend that you test a small area of your t-shirt to make sure that the paint will adhere to the fabric and that it does not bleed.  If possible buy a t-shirt with a tightly woven fabric.  The paint will cling better and the colour intensity will be brighter.

It is also recommended that you wash the fabric first.  This removes any sizing from the material which can interfere with the painting process.   If you choose to wash the fabric first, be sure to skip the fabric softener. 

There’s a wide variety of fabric paint available.  The fabric paint which comes in bottles with nozzle tops makes application easy for children.  However, by using sponges and paint brushes you can add texture and a higher degree of detail. 

If you’re using bottles with an applicator tip, store them upside down to prevent bubbles from interfering with the lines of your design. Glitter can be added when paint is still wet to add an extra sparkle to the project.

Sometimes children have an idea of exactly what they want and all you have to do is give them the tools and watch them go.  Other children may benefit from having a pattern or design ideas to guide them.  Cookie cutters make great stencils. Cups make perfect circles and a ruler can help a child make straight lines.  Letters can be created quickly and easily with stencils.  Coloring books with large pictures can also work very well as templates. Of course for ultimate fun painted hands make a fantastic fashion statement.

When the children are ready to paint, the fabrics have been tested and prepared and designs have been planned out it is time to begin. Slide a piece of cardboard underneath the material of the t-shirt being painted.  If a t-shirt or sweatshirt is being painted the cardboard should be inserted inside to keep paint from bleeding onto the other side.  The same holds true for pillow cases and bags.  If you’re painting a napkin or something with only one layer, cardboard positioned underneath will protect the table surface.

Follow the directions on the paint for drying times.  This is often difficult for children who want to be able to finish the other side of their project or who are ready to wear their masterpiece.  Plan to have an activity after painting or explain the process ahead of time so children won’t be disappointed.  This is a fun project!