Airbrushing T-Shirts Using a Stencil
If you're looking to add a colorful design to a T-shirt but don't want to pay a professional screen printing service, create your own custom look using an airbrush and a stencil. Airbrushes propel paint onto the fabric in a fine mist, resulting in a design that's both vibrant and permanent. Unlike more common vinyl fabric graphics, air brush paint won't crack and chip away from the T-shirt over time. Create a product that will rival professional work by pairing your airbrush with a stencil of your choice.
Instructions
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Iron the T-shirt completely smooth before beginning. For best results, the shirt should be completely clean of all dirt, oil and residue.
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Place the T-shirt on a flat working surface, such as an ironing board or sturdy table. Position the stencil as desired and attach it to the edges of the shirt with tape. This will keep the stencil stable as you begin your work.
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Attach the airbrush's hose to the air source, such as a CO2 tank or an air compressor. Screw a canister of your desired paint color into the port on the underside of the airbrush nozzle. Depress the trigger on top of the nozzle lightly to ready the paint for dispensing. Don your safety goggles.
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Hold the nozzle four to six inches from the shirt and begin dispensing paint over the stencil. Apply the paint in smooth, horizontal passes over the stencil.
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Remove the stencil once you've completed application. Allow the paint to fully dry overnight.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid washing the shirt for at least three days after paint application.
To apply more than one color to your T-shirt, disconnect the brush from your air source and switch out paint canisters.
Work in a bright, well-ventilated area.
Don't disturb the stencil as you work, as this will result in an inconsistent graphic once you finish.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
