Sunday, November 21

Dimensional Fabric Paint for Crochet Projects

School Teacher's "Gallon Friend"
'Melted Chocolate' Coffee Cozy
Dimensional fabric paint, also referred to as 3-D fabric paint, comes in a full rainbow of shiny, glittery, iridescent, and matte colors.

I've found that fabric paint is very useful for certain crochet projects.



With fabric paint you can:
  • Use on slipper soles for traction
  • Reinforce edges (fabric paint is waterproof and more durable than yarn)
  • Replace cross stitching and other surface embellishment
  • Add permanent facial features that won't pose a choking hazard to very young children
  • Add calligraphy-like text and symbols
    • Valentine (Ravelry Project page)
  • Glue yarn ends to secure from view, using a paint that matches the yarn color.
Pokemon Toy blogged here
Sometimes it's simply the best option for embellishing, adding facial details, even text! I love the fine touches embroidery can contribute to crocheted fabric, but some crochet projects need to stand up to hard wear and tear; for example, kitchen items and children's toys.

Crochet stitches themselves are durable, even self-reinforcing! Dimensional fabric paint, which is a machine washable and dryable acrylic polymer, is the only material I've used with crochet that not only holds up as well as crochet, but can even outlast the life of it.

My best advice to you, if you've never tried combining crochet and fabric paint, is to practice, practice, practice on swatches. You have one chance to get it right when applying this paint to crochet!
Posted by Vashti Braha
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2 comments:

  1. Sister ChristianDecember 16, 2013 at 8:12 PM

    I stumbled upon your site because I am crocheting a Steeler's blanket for my son. I am having difficulty with the letters and thought I might paint the individual stitches the appropriate color. Could you recommend a particular brand that you think might do well for this project? I'd really appreciate your help!

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    Replies
    1. Vashti BrahaJanuary 2, 2014 at 9:39 AM

      Hi Cindy, i haven't tried a variety of brands. It's important that you're able to draw comfortably with the one you choose. Take home one of each brand you find at a craft store (perhaps you'll see 2, or maybe 3, different kinds). Shake very well first. Try writing or drawing shapes on a crochet swatch of the yarn you're using. I've noticed a difference in how thick some come out and how watery others are. If they are very old, the solid ingredients separate from the liquid and and don't recombine readily. Also, sometimes they dry out a bit and aren't easy to draw with because they are lumpy and sticky.
      Then watch how your samples dry on the yarn you're using. Some shapes might require a second coat. Some brands might soak into the yarn more.
      I hope this helps.

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On-topic questions are welcome!

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