Fabric spray paint is a great way to add color or designs to clothing, furniture, or other fabric items.
Here are the steps for using fabric spray paint:
- Prepare the surface:
Before using fabric spray paint, it’s important to ensure that the fabric surface is clean and free of any dirt or debris. This can be achieved by washing and drying the fabric according to its care instructions. If the fabric is not washable, you can use a fabric cleaner to remove any stains or dirt. Once the fabric is clean, make sure it is completely dry before spraying.
If you are working with a piece of clothing or fabric item with buttons, zippers, or other hardware, you may want to remove them or cover them with painter’s tape to avoid getting paint on them. - Protect the surrounding area:
When using fabric spray paint, it’s important to protect the surrounding area from over spray. This can be done by covering any nearby surfaces or objects with a drop cloth or newspaper. Make sure to tape the edges of the drop cloth or newspaper to the floor or table to prevent them from shifting during spraying.
If you are working outside, make sure to choose a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. - Shake the can:
Before using fabric spray paint, it’s important to shake the can vigorously for at least one minute. This ensures that the paint is mixed properly and will spray evenly. - Test the spray:
Before spraying the fabric, it’s a good idea to test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that the color and coverage are to your liking. This can also help you get a feel for how much pressure you need to apply to the nozzle to achieve the desired spray. - Spray the fabric:
Hold the can of fabric spray paint about 6–8 inches away from the fabric and spray in a sweeping motion. Start with a light coat, and then add more coats as needed to achieve the desired coverage. It’s important to avoid spraying too heavily, as this can cause the paint to pool or run. - If you are working with stencils or masks, make sure to hold them firmly in place to avoid any bleeding or smudging. You can also use painter’s tape to secure the stencil or mask to the fabric.
- Let it dry:
Once you have finished spraying the fabric, it’s important to let it dry completely before using or handling it. The drying time can vary depending on the type of fabric and the humidity in the room, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times.
If you need to add additional coats of paint, make sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one. - Heat-set the paint (optional):
Some fabric spray paints require heat-setting to ensure that the color is permanent. This can be done by ironing the fabric on a high heat setting for a few minutes, or by using a clothes dryer on a high heat setting for 30 minutes. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific heat-setting recommendations.

Overall, using fabric spray paint is a fun and easy way to add color and personality to fabric items. With a few simple steps, you can transform a plain t-shirt, pillow, or piece of furniture into a unique and personalized work of art. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the paint adheres properly and lasts as long as possible.