What Paint to Use for Fabric Stencilling
You have several options, but choosing the right paint for the job makes all the difference:
- Dedicated fabric paint (e.g. Pebeo Setacolor, Jacquard Textile Colour) — the easiest option. Dries soft and flexible, machine-washable once heat-set.
- Acrylic paint + fabric medium — mix 2 parts acrylic paint with 1 part fabric medium (available from any craft shop). Cheaper than specialist fabric paint and gives excellent results.
- Bleach pen — for dark fabrics. Draw bleach through the stencil onto dark cotton for a negative/reverse effect. Works best on natural fibres.
- Fabric spray paint — fastest method for large areas. Ideal for tote bags and cushions. Use low-tack tape to mask off surrounding areas.
Avoid: standard acrylic without fabric medium — it dries hard and cracks after washing. Avoid oil-based paints entirely on fabric.
Step-by-Step: Stencilling a T-Shirt
Prep the fabric
Pre-wash and iron the garment. Slide a piece of cardboard inside to prevent paint bleeding through to the back layer.
Secure the stencil
Use low-tack adhesive spray on the back of the stencil and press firmly onto the fabric. Flat, smooth fabric gives the best result.
Apply fabric paint
Load a stiff brush or sponge lightly — dab off excess first. Stipple inward from the stencil edges with a near-dry brush.
Heat-set
Once fully dry (at least 24 hours), heat-set with a dry iron at the fabric's appropriate temperature for 30–60 seconds per section.
Fabric Stencilling Tips
- Stretch the fabric flat before applying the stencil — any wrinkles will cause uneven paint coverage and jagged edges
- Use a sponge for softer edges, a stiff brush for crisp lines, and a roller for large flat areas
- Thin paint bleeds more — use neat fabric paint or a mix with minimal water
- Peel the stencil while paint is still slightly wet — waiting until it's fully dry can cause the stencil to stick to the paint and lift it
- Wait 72 hours before washing for maximum durability, even after heat-setting
- Turn inside-out to wash for the longest-lasting print
Best Stencil Designs for Fabric
- Animal stencils — popular for children's clothing and tote bags
- Botanical stencils — leaf and floral designs for cushions and curtains
- Geometric stencils — repeat patterns for table runners and napkins
- Letter stencils — personalised name prints for clothing and bags
Can I Use These Stencils with a Cricut on Fabric?
Yes — download our SVG files and import them into Cricut Design Space. Cut from heat-transfer vinyl (HTV) or iron-on for a clean, permanent result on fabric without any painting at all. See our Cricut stencil guide for full instructions.