How to paint a T-shirt and keep it from rubbing off

Painting T-shirts is a fun and creative way to personalize them, but one of the biggest challenges is making sure the design doesn’t rub off over time or in the wash. The key is to use the right materials and follow the right steps to set the paint lastingly.

In this article, we show you how to paint a T-shirt and keep it from rubbing off, with simple techniques that guarantee a professional finish.

Essential materials for painting T-shirts

To achieve a resistant and quality design, you will need:

• Fabric paint that does not rub off easily in the wash: It is crucial to choose fabric-specific paint, such as those from Nazca Colors, which are flexible and resistant to washing.
• Good quality brushes: Flat brushes are ideal for filling in large areas, while fine brushes are for details. You may be interested in: Types of brushes for painting on canvas..
• Cardboard or plastic: Place it inside the T-shirt to prevent the paint from transferring.
• Masking tape: Useful for delimiting areas and maintaining a clean design.

Iron or hair dryer: To fix the paint after painting.

Preparation of the T-shirt before painting

Preparation is essential for the paint to adhere properly:

1. Wash the shirt before you start: This step removes any residue or stiffness that may hinder paint adhesion. Use a mild detergent and let the garment dry completely.
2. Prepare your work area: Place a piece of cardboard or plastic inside the T-shirt to prevent the paint from going through to the other side. Be sure to work on a flat, firm surface.
3. Draw the design: If you don’t feel confident painting directly, use a fabric pencil or chalk to draw the design as a guide.

Steps to paint on the fabric of a T-shirt without rubbing it off

If you want to learn how to paint on fabric without erasing, just follow these steps:

1. Choose colors and design: Decide if you want a simple design or something more elaborate. You can mix paints to get custom shades.
2. Apply the paint: Use brushes or sponges to paint. Work in thin layers to prevent the paint from cracking. If you need more intense colors, apply a second coat once the first is dry.
3. Let the paint dry: Allow the T-shirt to air dry for at least 24 hours.

Fixing the paint so that it does not rub off

This is the most important step to ensure that the design will last:

• Use heat to set the paint: Place a piece of baking paper or thin fabric over the design and run the hair dryer or hot iron (no steam) for a few minutes. The heat helps the paint adhere better to the fabric fibers.
• (Optional) Use spray fixative: Some fabric specific products can add an extra layer of protection.

Aftercare to maintain your design

To make your design last longer, keep these tips in mind:

• Wash the shirt inside out: Use cold water and a mild detergent.
• Avoid tumble drying: Air dry the garment to protect the colors.
• Do not use bleach or aggressive products: These can wear away the paint and fabric.

Painting T-shirts and making sure the design doesn’t rub off is easy if you follow these steps. With high-quality paints from Nazca Colors and a little creativity, you can transform a basic T-shirt into a unique and durable garment.