Painting jeans with acrylic paints for beginners

Recently, reusing things has become increasingly important. In this case we are talking about jeans. It is not at all necessary to throw them away, because even at home they can be given a touch of originality. Needlewomen often use an artistic technique in the form of a drawing for this purpose. Thanks to it, you will get new, stylish jeans at almost no cost.

Drawing on jeans with acrylic paints

The process of applying acrylic paints to denim is not too complicated. This does not require special skills. Just follow the step-by-step recommendations. But first, let's prepare:

• blue jeans;
• white acrylic paints;
• template with a picture;
• masking tape;
• foam sponge;
• thin brush.

Place light blue jeans on the work surface. We fix the stencil using masking tape.

Dip a foam sponge into white acrylic paint and apply it through a stencil onto the fabric using a tapping motion. Please note that the paint should not be applied in a too thick layer. It is best if the natural wear of the denim is preserved.

If desired, use a thinner brush to draw leaves or other additional elements. After the design is completed, leave the jeans for at least 24 hours until completely dry.

After a while, just wash the jeans in cool water, wait until they dry, and you can safely wear them.

Let's get to work

Before you start, shave your drawing. I chose this one:

Place a fiberboard board under the denim and draw a drawing with chalk:

1. Select the desired color.
2. We dilute it in a palette with the addition of water.
3. Draw the main details with brush No. 2.

Using a #1 brush, paint thin lines onto the flower to give a natural effect.

When the flower is finished, you can move on to painting the birds: apply the main color with brush No. 2, then draw small lines with brush No. 1.

Next we move on to the next bird. As in the previous version, apply the main color with brush No. 2, when the paint is absorbed and dry, draw the necessary details.

To apply the final touches, I used a #1 brush.

Now all that remains is to decorate the background with curly lines:

There are curly lines on the shelves, you can continue:

After 24 hours, iron the design through a sheet of paper.

The painting of a denim jacket for my sister is finished.

It took 1 week with breaks to make the masterpiece. I think it’s not bad at all for a start?! And of course my Akulina helped me in this matter.

DIY drawing on white jeans

For those who like more delicate and delicate designs, the first option is definitely not suitable. An alternative solution would be simple mesh lace. But keep in mind that it should be made of synthetic thread and not be too dense. By the way, many people even use small pieces of tulle if it has a suitable pattern. In addition, we will need:

• White jeans;
• colored markers for textiles;
• cardboard;
• scissors;
• pins.

Before starting work, we recommend ironing your jeans. This will make them easier to work with. In addition, you can put them on almost immediately after applying the design. So, the next step is to place the jeans on the work surface and straighten them.

We determine the location of the drawing and place a small piece of cardboard in the inner part. This will provide a smoother surface. In addition, you will protect the second part of the trouser leg from staining. In this case, we suggest starting from the very bottom of the jeans.

We attach the selected piece of lace to the jeans using several pins. Using a marker of the selected shade, carefully apply the design through the lace. Depending on the size of the parts, we make dots or strokes. It is best to start with the outline and gradually move towards the center. You can also start with the thicker part of the lace.

For additional volume and a gradient effect, you can use several shades. In this case we are talking about dark and light blue. Of course, this process is labor-intensive and quite lengthy. Especially if you plan to cover the entire surface of the jeans. But the result is definitely worth it.

Markers that are designed to work with textiles are generally quite wash-resistant. However, we recommend doing this in lukewarm water and no earlier than a day after registration. This will ensure that the contours of the design remain clear and the design attractive.

What can you use to dye jeans?

Whether you want to bring old jeans back to life or give your favorite pants a more unique look, there are tons of dyes to choose from.

Painting on jeans with acrylic paints

Ordinary acrylic paint will be useful for both professional artists and fashionistas to create a masterpiece from boring trousers. Nowadays it is quite easy to find any shades on the shelves, but if this is not enough, you can get a new one - the colors mix well.

Acrylic paints

The color should be applied with a brush onto pre-washed, dried and ironed material. It is better to draw the outlines of the design in advance with a pencil or fabric chalk so as not to get lost in the process. Thick cardboard should be placed inside the trouser leg so that the paint does not print on the other side.

Note! Although acrylic paint eats into the fibers quite deeply, with frequent washing the image will quickly lose its saturation, so it is not recommended to revive pants for everyday wear.

Drawing on jeans

When everything is ready, you need to let the acrylic dry. This may take 12-16 hours. Then the place where the paint is applied should be ironed so that the design lasts longer.

Aniline dyes for jeans

An excellent dye for denim fabric is based on aniline.

Aniline dye powders

Aniline powders withstand the effects of water and detergents well, so clothes dyed with their help are not afraid of washing.

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Important! When painting with powder, you can add table salt to it, so the color will be more uniform and last longer. The consumption is 100 g of salt per 8-10 liters of water. Usually the same amount of liquid is required for 1 sachet of powder, but it is better to clarify this point in the instruction manual.

Now liquid dyes based on aniline have appeared; they do not require dilution and are easier to use, but are less durable; such dyes are suitable for applying patterns and small designs.

Aniline dyed jeans

Interesting to know! If you mix aniline liquid dye with tragacanth glue in a ratio of 1:3, the composition will not spread. In addition, the design will fade less.

Dyeing jeans with Dilon

To return faded blue or black jeans to their original rich color, there is Dilon. The product is very convenient to use: it is simply added to the machine like washing powder. In addition to the coloring effect, Dilon also removes dirt. The effect of painting is quite long lasting.

Dilon palette

Although initially Dilon was produced in only two colors, today there is already plenty to choose from.

The effect of faded jeans using whiteness

While some are trying to update their jeans by returning their color, others dream of making them old. In the USSR, denim jeans were popular, and fashion, as you know, is cyclical and tends to come back.

You can get this original effect using regular white.

White

Aerosol painting

It is unlikely that you will be able to achieve uniform painting with spray paint, but you can show your imagination and create fancy patterns. When using an aerosol, it is better not to disdain the stencil, otherwise you may catch excess fabric.

Not only a dye specifically for denim, but any available paint in a can will work well and last a long time.

Aerosol paints

Powder dyes for jeans

A universal powder dye for fabric is perfect for jeans.

It is used economically, acts effectively, and does not spoil the structure of the fabric. Using it according to the instructions, achieving the desired result will not be difficult.

Universal powder dye

Blue to give your jeans a deep blue tone

You can cheaply and cheerfully return the color to faded blue jeans by using bluing. The amount of dye is calculated depending on the desired shade. The product is diluted in warm salt water. The jeans are soaked in the resulting solution for several hours, sometimes “stirring” them and turning them over to get an even color. At the end, the pants are rinsed in a weak vinegar solution.

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Blue for painting jeans

The main disadvantage of this method is that the results do not last long. After the first wash, the blue will begin to wash out.

Fabric paints

Almost any fabric dye will work for denim. They come in the form of powders, liquids and tablets.

Extreme and experimental dyes for denim

Experimenters who are not tempted by proven and modern dyeing methods can turn to folk ingenuity. It is unlikely that high-quality uniform coloring can be achieved with the following options, but if someone is not afraid of unexpected results, why not try? After all, if methods exist, then someone needs it.

Experimental methods of dyeing jeans

1. Marker ink. To get paint, you need to dip the rods of a dozen or two felt-tip pens into water and leave until they turn completely white. Dip jeans into the resulting liquid and leave for a couple of hours. It is worth considering that the fabric should be much lighter than the felt-tip pens used.
2. Natural dyes are also great for denim. Every food product contains pigment in greater or lesser quantities. If you choose bright vegetables, fruits, berries, herbs, seasonings, you can get an interesting result. Grind the selected ingredient and add water 1:2. Boil and let it brew for longer, the richer the desired color. Strain. Dilute 4 parts vinegar with 1 part dye, add ½ part salt. Boil the jeans in the resulting solution for an hour.
3. Hair dye. For one pair of pants, take 2 packs of ammonia-free paint, dilute with water (it should be enough to completely cover the jeans, but no more). Soak the jeans for a couple of hours.
4. Henna and coffee will give your jeans a brown color. Mix a pack of henna with 2 tbsp. ground coffee. Use in the same way as natural paints.

Drawings on jeans on the back pocket

Regardless of the chosen pattern, it is extremely important to determine its optimal location. Basically, fashionistas who make this design on their own for the first time start with pockets. The thing is that this is a fairly small area. That is, you will spend a minimal amount of time and materials on its design. Besides, if it doesn’t work out the first time, redoing the drawing won’t be difficult. In 2021, quite a large number of design options are relevant. Young girls will definitely love the cartoon characters. They are bright, cheerful and look especially stylish. Drawings based on famous works of art are also popular. They can be similar or combined with modern signs, symbols and details.

We recommend taking a closer look at natural motifs, which always turn out bright and stylish. The main advantage of this design is the simplicity of design. Therefore, every fashionista can easily make such a design on jeans, even without the help of a professional. Contrasting images look great on light-colored jeans. Therefore, be inspired by ideas and feel free to try something new.

Preparation and methods for dyeing jeans at home

Before you start painting, it is important to wash off all stains, otherwise it will ruin the result - the color will lie unevenly, and dirt will become even more noticeable. Even if your pants seem clean, it is better to wash them just in case. It's worth checking to make sure there's nothing left in your pockets.

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Attention! Regardless of the way you work, it is better to wear protective gloves.

By preparing everything you need in advance, you can avoid procrastination and mistakes in painting.

Preparing jeans for dyeing

Dyeing jeans in the washing machine

The dye is added to the drum of the machine or to the washing powder compartment. Before use, it is recommended to dilute the dye with water until smooth, this will provide a more even shade.

After which you need to select any long washing mode and water temperature of 90-100 degrees.

Painting in the washing machine

This method allows you to achieve a uniform, uniform color without spending extra effort.

Painting in an enamel basin

To paint by hand, you will have to use enamel dishes. It is better to avoid aluminum containers: after interacting with chemicals, they will be damaged.

The jeans are boiled, stirring occasionally, in the dye at a constant temperature for 1-2 hours.

Painting by hand

Creating the “varenki” effect

You can get the effect of “boiled” jeans using whitewash both on the stove and in the washing machine. The main thing is to maintain a constant high temperature. To prepare the solution, dilute the white with hot water 1:10.

The jeans are pre-rolled to create fancy patterns and streaks, and tied with elastic bands in several places, after which they are dyed as usual.

The process of "cooking" jeans

Ideas for designs on jeans

If you have decided to make a design on your jeans yourself, it’s time to choose the most suitable option. After all, the effectiveness of the design will depend on this. In 2020, schematic images of faces are popular. Basically, black, white or a combination of both are used for it. One of its main advantages is ease of application. Therefore, it is suitable even for those who have not previously tried to do something like this.

Brave, bright girls very often choose unusual solutions for themselves. These include abstract designs, colorful details, or even an image of fire. This is a unique way of self-expression, so there are no special restrictions or frameworks.

True fashionistas always especially appreciate floral designs. Moreover, you can use it literally everywhere, from manicure or accessories to clothing. Therefore, jeans are often decorated with just this design in color or black and white.

Lovers of modern fashion experiments will definitely love this jeans design. After all, it allows you not only to present them in a new way, but also to demonstrate your own sense of taste.

You will need:

• Jeans with back pockets (even if they're brand new, wash them first)
• Masking tape
• Acrylic paints (including white)
• Brushes of various sizes
• Fine pen or marker
• Plastic plate or palette for artists (for mixing paints)

What kind of dye can be used for jeans?

We have found out that jeans are not a fastidious material to dye. Conventionally, dyes for denim can be divided into purchased and improvised.

Ready-made pigments from the store

There is a huge selection of all kinds of ready-made coloring agents. Let's look at the most popular ones. Based on their composition, the following types of dyes for denim can be distinguished:

1. Aniline pigments. They are safe and come in a wide range of colors. They come in liquid and powder form. It is worth noting that such dyes are not very durable and are washed out of the fabric over time. In this regard, it is recommended to wash clothes dyed with aniline dyes separately from light-colored fabrics, otherwise they may lose their color to them.
2. Blue. The most famous type of dye, which in the old days was used not only for coloring clothes, but also hair, and lime for trees. Blue contains starch and blue pigment. This dye is available in powder, tablet and liquid form. The last form is considered the most convenient. The color palette of this pigment is limited from blue to dark blue, depending on the saturation of the pigment. Like aniline dyes, blue fades and is quickly washed out of the fabric.

1. Acrylic paint. Widely used for fabric painting. You can also dye jeans with it. True, it is not suitable for completely repainting clothes, but for masking stains, scuffs and other defects, this is the best option. Acrylic dyes are easy to apply, safe and durable. They are used mostly for painting and can be used to create a unique design on fabric. To use them you will need the necessary shades of paint, brushes and an iron for fixing. You can iron the fabric for fixation only after the paint has completely dried. Typically this time is plus or minus 24 hours. As a rule, with careful washing, clothes do not shed, and the colors remain saturated for a long time.

Acrylic paint for painting fabrics

By the way, acrylic paints are also available in the form of aerosols and sprays. You can find out how to use them and which manufacturers of this form of paint exist in the article: Aerosol paint for fabrics.

Special denim dye

Currently, there is a huge selection of dyes that say “For jeans”. They are produced by various Russian companies.

Jeans paint

One of the most common paints is “Jeans” from. The composition is a powder pigment. Available in a wide range of shades: black, blue, yellow, fuchsia, etc. This dye is sold everywhere, from hardware stores to hypermarkets for arts and crafts.

This product costs 100 - 300 rubles and allows you to dye it either manually or in a washing machine.

You can purchase “Jeans” in a bag or box. In addition to the dye, the box contains gloves, which is very convenient. 1 package is designed for dyeing 800 - 1000 grams of dry fabric.

To dye jeans by hand, the manufacturer advises the following:

• Pour enough warm water into a wide enamel bowl to immerse the clothes.
• Dissolve the dye in 250 ml of boiling water and pour into a container.
• Place the clean and wet product, straightened out, into the prepared solution and heat to a boil with constant stirring for 20 - 30 minutes.
• At the end of the procedure, add 100 - 250 grams of salt (at the rate of 2-5 liters of solution), mix.
• Continue to maintain the temperature at about 90 degrees for another 10 to 60 minutes. The more saturated the result is needed, the longer it is necessary to heat.

After dyeing, the color needs to be fixed. For this:

• Pour clean water into the container where the clothes are.
• Add 6 tablespoons of 9 percent vinegar, mix and leave for 20-30 minutes.
• Rinse in cold water until colorless.

In the washing machine, dyeing with “Denim” comes down to:

• Clean clothes are placed into the machine.
• The pigment is dissolved in 250 ml of boiling water and the resulting solution is poured into the drum. By the way, you can do without dissolving: immediately pour the powder into the machine. True, the solution, to a greater extent, guarantees uniform coloring.
• Add 100 - 200 g to the drum. salt and straighten the fabric well.
• The washing temperature must be selected within 50 – 95 degrees. Washing time can be 30 minutes or more. The longer the time and temperature, the more saturated the color will be.
• After washing, the pigment must be fixed on the fabric in the same way as with the manual dyeing method, i.e. soaking in a vinegar solution.

According to reviews on the Internet, it can give durable and rich coloring if the instructions are followed correctly.

Dyeing jeans using special pigments in a washing machine is the easiest and most reliable way to update the color.

Even more information about ready-made fabric dyes can be found in this article: Types of fabric dyes.

Homemade products and natural dyes for dyeing jeans

It can be noted that among the available means, the following “dyes” have become widely used:

• Coffee Tea
• Henna
• Zelenka
• Potassium permangantsovka
• Poisons of herbs and dried berries
• Vegetable and fruit juices (beets, blackberries, blueberries, etc.)

If you want to use natural products (berries, vegetables, fruits, herbs) to dye old jeans, be prepared for a long process. Indeed, often, coloring using infusions and decoctions requires additional etching. Details about improvised means, natural dyes, mordants and dyeing methods can be found in the article: “Handy means for dyeing clothes.”

There is a huge selection of natural dyes for fabrics

White

This substance, or more correctly, removes color from jeans, rather than imparting it. However, to create an interesting white pattern, whiteness is a budget-friendly and effective means. It discolors fabric of any color, be it black or blue jeans. It is worth noting that it is better to work with it in a respirator, since the chlorine contained in its composition is volatile and can affect the respiratory tract.

Jeans treated with whiteness are called boiled jeans. The popularity of dumplings has long passed, but the craving for the fashion of the last century remains. Even on store shelves you can often find similar products.

How to make boiled denim? Everything is very simple:

• A glass of whiteness is diluted in a bucket of warm water.
• Before diving, jeans must be wetted with water and twisted as your imagination dictates. It is better to secure twisted jeans with white threads or a white elastic band.
• Place this structure in the solution and boil for 15-20 minutes.
• Then the item is rinsed and washed in a gentle machine.

White bleached denim shorts

By the way, whiteness can be used at an intermediate stage of dyeing. For example, if you want to radically change the color of your clothes, for example, make red or green from black jeans, then you can first bleach them using whiteness, and then do the final dyeing. In this case, it is necessary to place the pants in the solution as loosely as possible and it is better to take a larger container. Otherwise, the fabric may not be completely discolored, but only in spots. True, this option also gives interesting effects in the future when painting.

It is better not to treat jeans that are too thin with white, because it somewhat thins the fabric and this affects its strength.

Video: How to whiten jeans using whitening

Hair dye.

Paradoxically, hair dye is used not only for its intended purpose.

To dye jeans, it is recommended to use ammonia dye, especially if the source color differs from the planned result.

Dyeing jeans with hair dye is easy:

• It is necessary to dilute 2 packages of dye, add water to them until the volume is completely immersed in the clothes to be dyed.
• Soaking time ranges from 1.5 hours and above. The longer you soak, the richer the color.
• Then, the dyed jeans should be rinsed in water with a small amount of vinegar added.

The disadvantages of hair dye are:

• Unpredictable effect: nevertheless, it is not used for its intended purpose;
• Rapid leaching from fabric and shedding.

Markers, felt-tip pens, pen ink.

Pen ink or marker refills can also be used to pigment clothing. At the same time, everything is simple: the removed rods or ink are immersed in hot water. After a few minutes, the pale tubes are removed and the clothes are lowered.