How to Customize Airbrushed Shirts
The art of airbrushing T-shirts first gained popularity among drag racers in the 1960's. During this time, shirts were painted using tools similar to those used to custom airbrush cars. Airbrushed T-shirts are still popular more than 40 years later. Why stop with just simple airbrushing though? Take your airbrushed T-shirt to the next level by customizing it with embellishments and detailing. A wide variety of embellishments can be added to your favorite airbrush work without damaging the original design.
Things You'll Need
- Cardboard T-Shirt Board
- Sequins
- Studs
- Fabric Glue
- Iron-on Letters
- Iron
- Scissors
- Embroidery Thread
- Needle
- Clear Fabric Glitter
Instructions
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Instructions
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Determine what type of embellishment you want to add to your airbrushed T-shirt. Choose an embellishment that will not overpower the original design, but instead complement the existing artwork.
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Glue sequins or studs to your T-shirt. Insert the T-shirt cardboard inside the shirt. The board protects the side that you are not decorating from glue, glitter and heat from the iron. Lay your T-shirt out on a flat surface. Place the studs or sequins in the desired location. Be sure you like the layout of the embellishments before permanently attaching them. Apply a small dollop of glue to the backside of each embellishment. Place the sequin or stud in the desired location and press down firmly. Wipe away any excess glue. Allow the glue to dry fully before removing the T-shirt board.
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3
Add your name or nickname to the back of your airbrushed T-shirt to give your shirt a sporty feel. Insert the T-shirt board inside the shirt. Plug in the iron and allow it to reach the correct temperature before ironing on your letters. Lay out the letters on the shoulder area of the back side of your T-shirt. Iron on the letters in the desired format.
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Use the scissors to cut the T-shirt into a new shape. Remove the sleeves to make a simple tank top. Make exaggerated downward cuts on the sleeves to transform your airbrushed T-shirt into a muscle tee. Be careful not to cut away at the original airbrush design.
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Add embroidery to your T-shirt. Insert the T-shirt board inside your shirt. Determine where you want your embroidery to go, and use your embroidery thread and needle to sew details onto your shirt. Trace around the airbrushed objects with your embroidery thread, making the designs stand out and really pop. Embroidery also can be added to the hemline along the sleeves, shirt bottom and neckline.
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Make your airbrushed T-shirt sparkle by adding fabric glitter. Insert the T-shirt board inside your shirt. Apply a generous amount of clear fabric glitter to the desired areas. Spread the glitter evenly with your fingers. Allow the fabric glitter to fully dry before removing the t-shirt board. Use colored glitter if you want to add more color variety to your shirt.
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References
- Photo Credit sequins image by Vaida from Fotolia.com
