Fabric Paints
Use fabric paints that are appropriate for the type of fabric you are painting on your curtains. They are designed to hold up to wear and cleaning on material. Other paints may run, smear, come off too easily or not work properly while painting. This type of paint also adheres better to fabrics than other paints do. Fabric paints come in more than one type of container. They are available in applicator tubes, which makes the use of brushes unnecessary if you would rather not use them.
Work Techniques and Preparation
Take the curtains down to do the painting. You will have more control over the detail of the painting if the drapes are set on a firm working surface while you paint them. It is also easier on your back and arms. Iron the curtains before you begin painting. Spread the curtains out for a smooth painting surface. If the work surface of your table or counter can be damaged by the paint you are using, cover it before you begin painting. A wipeable plastic tablecloth or cover will work better than messy newsprint that may soil the curtains. If you are not sure of your painting skills, draw a design on the fabric using a pencil and a gentle hand, making a light impression that will easily be covered with the paint. Another technique is to draw the design on a sheet of graded paper to use as a guide for painting. Weigh or tape down the ends and sides of the curtains if you find the fabric is moving around too much while you work.
Fabric Types
A tightly woven cotton fabric works best, but other materials will be fine if the paint is properly applied. Be aware, though, that the type and weave of your curtains may affect the results. Test a hidden area or a scrap piece of fabric before you attempt to paint the whole curtains if you have any doubts about the material and how it will work with or react to the paint.
Brush Types and Styles
Fine details will require the use of smaller regular paintbrushes, the type found in craft and hobby stores. Be sure the brushes you pick are made for use with the type of paint you will be using. For a rougher or less finished look, use the foam craft brushes also found at hobby and craft stores. As with the fabric, test the brushes on scrap fabric before you begin painting so you can get used to how they work. Painting on fabric has a different feel when you work the paint and brushes than other surfaces.
Alternate Methods
Instead of following a prepared design or painting free hand with brushes or an applicator, try a different method of painting using foam rubber stamps for stamping on the curtains with the fabric paints. Test the thickness of the paint and the pressure you will need to use for stamping on scraps or test areas before you tackle the full painting project. If you use more than one color of paint when stamping, let the image dry before you stamp the next part--leaves on branches, for example. Fabric markers are another type of painting technique to use on curtains. They are easy to handle and work with. There is no paint and there are no brushes to fuss with, and clean up is very easy after the job is done.
Prewash
Fabric may have sizing on it. All curtains are not washable, though. Test the fabric to see if there is a sizing or absorbency issue. Drip some water on a small area of the curtain to see if it beads up on the surface of the fabric. If it does, you may need to wash the curtains, if they are washable. Do not put softeners in the washer or dryer if you do wash them before you paint.
Finishing
Let the painted curtains dry. Iron the curtains after you finish painting them to help set the paint.
