If you have been into fabric paints recently, then among several factors you are curious about is the thorough knowledge of drying them. Generally, different paints from various brands do differ in their drying periods. However, there is a certain time that is required by almost every fabric paint to absorb efficiently and sit on the cloth’s surface to stay there for a long period. Moreover, there is a high possibility that you might want to speed up this process if you have a busy schedule. Fortunately, there are some methods that have proven to dry these pigments in less time.
Fabric paints or pigments can take between 12-and 42 hours to dry. Depending upon the paint kind and quality, some dry in hours while others take days. However, one can also speed up this process through a heat source like a sunbeam and hairdryer.
In this post, I have discussed the dynamics of fabric paint drying to give you a better idea and assist you in successfully retaining your artistic designs. In addition, I have listed some convenient and great ways to allow you to speed up the process. You can try any of these and also experiment with others as well. It will make you an expert by improving your information regarding the suitability of these methods for multiple fabric types.
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Time Required By Fabric Paints To Dry:-
Usually, the time factor that is needed for fabric pigments to dry completely depends on the quality of ingredients in the paint as well as the cloth type. I recommend waiting for about 12 hours. This limit can be extended to 30-36 hours for some fabrics. It is an estimate that works for most cases.
To make sure that the pigment has dried after a sufficient period, it is also better to check it with something that does not ruin the paint. The tool for testing can be a common pin or the sharp edge of a safety pin. If you think you can wait more and still are not sure about it, I suggest giving the paint 3-4 hours more and observing it later.
Another helpful source to get familiar with the drying property of paint is to thoroughly go through the instructions or guidelines written on the package since the details are mentioned there. As I have mentioned earlier, this aspect is also determined by the paint quality. Some companies claim fast-drying pigments which can have sub-standard quality. You might benefit from the quick process but need to apply more coatings continuously.
4 Effective Methods To Dry Fabric Paints Fast:-
Drying In Sunlight:
Sunlight is among the best drying methods when it comes to various materials and objects. The same is the case with fabric paints. If you have an open area near your house such as the backyard, you can hang the painted cloth where it comes in contact with the sunbeam. On the other hand, if you cannot dry it outdoors, placing the fabric close to the windows through which sunlight enters your house works as well.
Heating The Fabric Using Hair Dryer:
There is a chance that some readers live in areas where days are cloudy and there is not enough sunlight for most of the year. On the days when there is not enough sunlight, hair dryers come in handy. Give 5-6 hours for the pigment to absorb to some extent.
After this step, using a lower level for heated air, point the dryer towards your fabric. Keep it approximately 2 feet away from the item. Remember to not rush the procedure and avoid keeping a minimum distance between the dryer and fabric. It will make you satisfied as your project will finish the way you desired.
Choosing The Less Humid Environment:
You must be familiar with the fact that humid conditions are unsuitable when you want to evaporate all the moisture. Similarly, if you put the painted cloth in an area with high moisture content (as in an outdoor space during a rainy day), it will slow down the drying or evaporation. This is because humidity decreases the temperature which adversely impacts this process.
Therefore, you should place the finished product near the air-conditioner. If you have a dehumidifier available in your supplies, it will also facilitate by reducing the water content in the room’s atmosphere.
Heat Setting The Fabric:
After the pigment dries from every side of the cloth, it is recommended to set it by giving it an adequate amount of heat. It ensures the longevity of the artwork. To perform this step, place any piece of clean cloth over the painted fabric and apply pressure via ironing on normal heat. One can also use a dryer which serves the purpose. Set the button to a high level and continue the activity for approximately 20 minutes.
In situations where synthetic fabrics or puffy paints are used, this process should be avoided as it can damage them. For puffy paints, you can provide heat through iron to the paint without making contact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fabric Paints:-
Do fabric paints work on denim?
Yes, there are multiple fabric paints available in the market that target customers who wear denim jackets and jeans often. One of the most suitable paints for this purpose is acrylic paints which allow multiple coatings.
How do you get fabric paint to stay on clothes?
Once the paint on the fabric has completely dried, you can seal it simply by applying heat such as ironing. It lets the paint stay in great condition for a long period without getting removed after continuous and repeated washing.
Does spray paint make fabric stiff?
If you are using normal spray paint to make designs on fabric, chances are it will be less appealing and make the stuff of fabric stiff as well. Applying fabric paints carefully to the clothes does not result in any damage to the material since manufacturers formulate them solely for fabric and consider its properties while designing.
Final Thoughts:-
Fabric painting is an interesting dimension of arts discipline that involves making intricate designs and renewing the clothes. Whether you have chosen to do it for yourself or desire to start a small-scale business, it is essential that you learn about the time taken for different fabric paints to dry. Moreover, the familiarity with the techniques to dry the artwork in less period has multiple benefits too. Here’s hoping I have been successful in giving useful information and tips regarding fabric paints.