How to Remove Dried Fabric Paint

Fabric paint adds interest to solid-colored fabric.

Fabric paint is a creative way to decorate shirts, handbags and even canvas shoes. Sometimes you make mistakes and have to remove the paint. Have no fear. Removal is painless and with the help of a few common household items, a clean slate is yours again. While it is easier to repair your blunder while the paint is still wet, most companies realize we make mistakes and allow us to fix up an otherwise salvaged craft.

Things You'll Need

• Dull scraping device
• Acetone
• Hair spray
• Hand sanitizer
• Laundry detergent
• Water
• Bowl/sink
• Stiff cleaning brush/toothbrush

Instructions

1. Scrape paint off the fabric with a dull knife, acting before the paint dries. Once the fabric paint dries, it will become increasingly difficult to remove. According to Michael"s FAQ about fabric paint, sometimes fabric paint will peel of a fabric, depending on the fabric content. If it does not peel off, use acetone to remove, working on a test patch first.

2. Remove the majority of paint before using solvents or chemicals. Ohio State University's Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal suggests not using nail polish remover (acetone) on acetate, triacetate or modacrylic fabrics as they will dissolve. Soak a cotton ball in hand sanitizer and rub on fabric to break up the paint. Scrape the fabric gently with a dull knife to remove most of the paint.

3. Spray the spot with hairspray and allow to soak in for approximately three minutes. Mix a small amount of detergent with water in a bowl or sink and rub the fabric together to further loosen the dried paint. Wash clothing according to instructions. Dry on medium-high heat .

4. Remove from the dryer and examine the fabric for any remaining paint. If the paint has not completely washed out, repeat the hairspray process and re-wash.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the labels before using acetone to be sure you don't damage the fabric.

• Test acetone on a hidden part of the fabric first.

References

• Michael's: FAQ's About Fabric Paint
• Ohio State University: Quick 'n Easy Stain Removal

Resources

• I Love to Create