Fabulous fabric paint

Whether you’ve got a cushion that needs re-covering or a tablecloth waiting to be made, you’ll find just the inspiration you’re looking for in this book. I certainly did. Fabulous fabric paint will show you how to add a personal touch – and a splash of colour – to just about anything, as long as it’s material.

The authors go to quite a bit of trouble in the beginning to clarify the basics, which is great for beginners. They help you choose the tools you’ll need to get started, and explain things like preparing the fabrics you’re about to work on, as well as making and using a sticky board.

From there, they give you a couple of ideas on how to finish your project properly – there’s everything from copyright recommendations to how to care for your finished product. Then there’s a useful chapter on how to use colour, before the real fun begins: techniques.

This is where the book starts to pick up in pace. And instead of going according to projects, you’re taught a variety of techniques like shading, texturing, stencilling, stamping, embossing, screen-printing, and working with liquid paint, to name a few. There are step-by-step instructions, lists of what you’ll need, and beautiful, clear photographs to help you out – you’re unlikely to get stuck.

Once you’re acquainted with the techniques that give you the effect you’re after, you’ll no doubt have your favourites. And that’s the beauty of fabric painting: most techniques can then be used on any blank canvas – be it that cushion and tablecloth; or bags, hammocks, deck chairs, and t-shirts.

You’re in for a surprise at the end of the book. A generous 15 pages of traceable designs await you. So if, while you’re trying out the techniques, you come across any designs you like, flip through to the end of the book – it might just be there.

Reviewed by Cara Visser

Published by Metz Press