How to set fabric paint
Fabric paint is usually set by letting it dry completely and then applying heat, which bonds the pigments to the fibers. You can heat set it with a clothes dryer, an iron, or a heat press depending on the fabric and the paint instructions.
Let the fabric paint dry fully
I mixed Lumiere metallic fabric paint with another Jacquard color to get the grey dots on the yellow sweatshirt. After applying the paint, I let it air dry until the surface was fully dry and no areas felt cool. Most fabric paints need complete drying before heat setting so the binder can attach to the fibers.
Use heat to set the paint
After the paint dried, I set it in the home dryer. Medium to high heat for 20 to 30 minutes is enough to cure most textile paints on cotton and other natural fabrics. The dryer works well for metallic or layered paints because there is no direct contact with the surface.
Other ways to heat set fabric paint
You can also use an iron by placing a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric and keeping the iron moving. A heat press works too if you follow the temperature guidelines listed on the paint label.
Aftercare
Once the paint is heat set, it becomes flexible and washable. Most brands recommend waiting at least 72 hours before the first wash.
Corky Lorenz
November 29, 2025