How to Stencil on Fabric ?
If you want to paint on fabric using a stencil, whether it’s on a tote bag or a piece of clothing, here are our tips to help you get clean results with no smudging or paint bleeding, using either adhesive or reusable stencils.
The material you need to stencil on fabric
Which type of stencil to use on fabric ?
To paint a stencil on fabric, you can use two types of stencils : adhesive stencils or reusable stencils.
Adhesive stencils allow you to reproduce a shape perfectly, while reusable stencils require small bridges to keep the details connected. If you want to create your own custom stencil, you can use our online tool to design personalised stencils.
Which paint should you use for fabric stencilling ?
Fabric and Textile paints are ideal for stencilling on fabric if you want a design that lasts over time and withstands washing.
You can also apply our white textile primer to reduce the risk of smudging and make your colours pop.
How to stencil fabric ?
Before you begin, place your fabric on a firm surface. This prevents the paint from bleeding through the material and makes the painting process easier.
Positioning your stencil on the fabric
If you’re using an adhesive stencil, remove the part you want to fill with paint. Use transfer tape to lift and position your stencil more easily. Stick it onto the fabric, remove the transfer tape, then gently heat the stencil to help it bond to the surface.
If you’re using a reusable stencil, place it directly on the fabric and secure it with masking tape.
Apply a base coat
To get vibrant colours and avoid smudging when stencilling on fabric, apply a base coat of white paint or textile primer using a flat brush or a stencil brush.
Make sure to apply thin layers so the texture of the fabric remains visible : there’s no need to make the base coat completely opaque.
Fill the stencil with paint
To paint inside the stencil, use SneakArts textile paints and apply 2 to 3 thin layers with a stencil brush or a flat brush. Let each layer dry before adding the next one.
Once the paint is fully dry, remove your stencil and gently apply a thin layer of matte varnish over the painted area.
Stenciling fabric step-by-step
Watch our step-by-step video to learn how to stencil on fabric perfectly. In the video we use flat brushes, but you can also fill the stencil by gently dabbing the paint with a stencil brush.
And that’s it, now you know how to paint on fabric using a stencil, avoid smudges, and choose the right paint for a long-lasting result on your clothes and accessories.
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