If you’re new to painting, you might ask questions such as, “What type of clothing paint should I use?” The answer is simple, you should choose fabric paint that is specially made for the purpose of painting clothes. In addition to being a great choice for creating artwork, it also is easy to work with and provides excellent results.

Fabric paints are available in tubes or bottles. They have the consistency of liquid and can be applied with a brush. This makes them ideal for a wide range of surfaces, including canvas, paper, and glass. It is recommended that you check the label of the product you’re considering, as some may contain VOCs, which are volatile organic compounds. These can be harmful to the environment and affect the ozone layer.

Choosing a quality brand is important. There are many different types of paints and mediums on the market. You can find ones that are non-toxic, odorless, or washable, depending on your needs.

Fabric paint can be used to make a variety of effects, from metallic and fluorescent to glow in the dark. For a more permanent effect, you can use a heatgun or hair dryer to set the paint. Some spray paints will require you to mix them with thinners, while other ones can be applied directly on the material. To keep the colors from fading, you can apply a protective sealant.

Once you have your paint, you can choose whether you want to add embellishments and textures. You can also use fabric markers. Markers give you more control over how you’re creating your design, and they’re best for smaller areas on canvases. However, if you want to do a more detailed job, you might want to invest in a high-quality, permanent acrylic fabric paint.

Before you start painting, you should pre-wash the fabric. Washing the fabric first can help it perform better when it is painted, and you can avoid adding softeners to it. Also, washing it at a lukewarm temperature helps remove any starches that might have accumulated during the production process. Depending on the fabric, you might need to leave it to dry for up to 4 hours.

When you’re ready to finish your project, you can iron your piece. Heat can help to set your paint and create a smooth finish. Just be sure not to rub it too much, as this could cause the fabric to stretch or warp.

Another option for a permanent look is puff paint. Puff paints are made with a raised finish, which gives them a three-dimensional look. Painting with puff paint can be a fun craft to do with your kids. Keep in mind that this paint is not waterproof, so you’ll have to be careful when handling it.

Other than fabric, you can also use textile paint on wood, plastic, and paper. Most materials will need to be treated with a barrier to prevent the paint from bleeding. This is especially useful for items you plan to sell.