water based paint of fabrics

I used water based paint when I painted my students hands to create a christmas tree and was wondering if there is anything I can do or use to make the paint stick to the shirts? I know now that I should have used acrylic!!!

Comments for water based paint of fabrics

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Dec 11, 2016

Painting on fabric
by: Cheryl

Hello there!

Do you mean watercolor paints? I ask because acrylics are water-based.

You need fabric paint or you have to add a fabric medium to acrylic paints. This will make the paint stick and it will remain flexible.

You could try painting over the artwork with just the fabric medium. It will dry clear. Then follow the instructions for heat setting the finished work.

I've not done this myself so I can't guarantee results. If it was watercolors they may bleed. Do a test area and see how it goes.

Best of luck.

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AUTHOR BIO

Cheryl Poulin, CPC, has been helping decorative painters of all levels grow their acrylic painting skills since 1993. She has taught thousands of students, published 50+ instructional packets and videos, and helped revive interest in the decorative art form with a beginner painting program using her step-by-step Earmark Studio Method.

Cheryl’s work has appeared in publications such as: The Decorative Painter, PaintWorks, and Tole World. Cheryl provides your-decorative-painting-resource.com as a free resource. She’s happiest when she sees her students succeed. Cheryl relaxes with a brush in hand, painting, doodling, and creating.