10 tips for Painting on Clothes successfully for DIY & upcycling projects

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your clothes into a canvas, you’re in the right place. I’ve been hand-painting clothing for over 15 years — back when literally no one was doing it. People told me it wouldn’t catch on. Fast-forward to now: We Are Hairy People is still going strong, I’ve collaborated with massive eco-conscious brands like Pangaia and Lucy & Yak, as well as selling my work in high street stores such as ASOS and Topshop, and painted thousands of wearable artworks.

So I guess I’ve learned a thing or two about how to paint on clothes successfully. Not just “how to paint on fabric” — you can Google that. This is about how to do it well — how to make painted clothes you’ll actually want to wear, how to make them last, and how to make your designs look intentional, professional and full of personality.

Whether you’re a total beginner or you’ve already dabbled in DIY fashion, here are my top 10 tips to help your painted clothing go from “cute idea” to OMG where did you get that?!

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✨ 1. Start with Intentionality

This is the biggest tip of all: Be intentional. Professional-looking wearable art doesn’t just come from having the right fabric paint or fancy tools — it comes from having a clear idea, a thoughtful layout, and considered colour choices.

🎨 2. Plan Your Design Placement

Draw out your design before you start. If in doubt, go for a chest print — our brains are used to seeing that layout because of traditional screen printing. It feels professional.

Want to get more creative? Think about placement: play with pockets, seams, collars — I love making things interact with the garment itself, and I really like doing what print can’t. Just take your time to sketch, try layouts, and find a sense of balance.

🌈 3. Use Contrasting Colours

High contrast = high impact. It instantly gives your design that confident, intentional vibe. Choose colours that pop against your fabric for maximum effect.

✂️ 4. Stencils = Clean Lines

Crisp lines can elevate your painting from homemade to high-end. You don’t need fancy tools — paper, card, or thin plastic work perfectly. Hold them down tightly or tape them in place, and remember: dry brushes only (especially with stencil brushes!) or you’ll end up with blotchy blobs.

🖌️ 5. Build Up in Thin Layers

This is a golden rule: paint in thin, dry layers. Fabric absorbs paint better this way, and it helps preserve the natural softness of the fabric.

One thick coat might seem faster, but it’ll crack, feel uncomfortable, and won’t last. Three thin, dry coats = smooth, soft, durable magic.

🚫 6. Don’t Bother with a White Base Layer

Skip the urge to “prime” your clothes with a big splodge of white. So many creators do this online, it seems crazy to me- It gets tacky, cracks, and feels plasticky. Instead, use high-opacity fabric paints and layer them up thinly. Bold results, no stickiness.

🔥 7. Set the Paint (Properly!)

Once dry, set your design with a hot iron (no steam!) for 5–10 minutes. Then wear it a bit before the first wash. That extra time helps the paint cure and stick better. Turn clothes inside out and wash on 30°C for best results.

✍️ 8. Avoid Typography Unless You’re a Pro

Lettering looks easy — but it’s not. Handwriting on fabric without a solid plan often leads to wobbly, off-centre, awkward lettering. Either sketch it out carefully or skip it unless you’re confident in your calligraphy skills.

🌿 9. Keep Things Cohesive

Designs look stronger when there’s some visual consistency — like using the same-sized elements, similar colours, or repeated shapes. It gives your piece that “yes, I meant to do this!” energy that makes a design look polished.

🌀 10. Break All These Rules If You Paint Freely and It Works

If you’re an intuitive artist and your chaotic process produces magic — keep going! These tips are just a guide for getting consistently good results, but there’s no right or wrong way to make art.

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Final Thoughts from We Are Hairy People

Painting on clothes is about freedom, expression, and creativity — but if you want your pieces to last, feel good, and actually get worn (not just admired once and hidden in a drawer), these pro tips will take you far.

If you’re into upcycling, DIY fashion, sustainable style, or just want to create something personal and beautiful — this is your sign to go for it.

You’ve got this. Just remember: be intentional, be playful, and don’t water down your paints.

Need some inspiration? Check out this gallery of some of my favourite custom paintings from over the years!

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Explore more wearable art and hand-painted pieces at www.wearehairypeople.co.uk

We believe fashion can be fun, kind, and conscious — and you’re invited.