I Tested the Best Paint for Tee Shirts: My Top Picks and Tips for Perfect Designs
When I first started customizing my own clothing, I quickly realized that the right paint can make all the difference. Paint for tee shirts isn’t just about adding color—it’s about transforming a plain fabric into a vibrant expression of creativity and personality. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just dipping your toes into DIY fashion, discovering the perfect paint can open up endless possibilities for unique, wearable art. Join me as I explore the world of tee shirt paints and what makes them the ideal choice for bringing your ideas to life.
I Tested The Paint For Tee Shirts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint in Bottles (60ml/2oz) with Brushes, Palette, Stencils, Non-Toxic Textile Paint for T-Shirts, Shoes, Jeans, Bags, DIY Projects&Art
Colorful Fabric Paint Set for Clothes 12 Colors – Permanent Textile Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists
Hual Fabric Paint Set for Clothes with 6 Brushes, 1 Palette, 12 Colors (12ml, 0.4oz) – Permanent Textile Paint Puffy Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists
Tulip Puff Paint 20-Color Party Pack, Multi-Surface, Premium Quality, Nontoxic & Waterproof Craft Paint, Permanent on Fabric, Rainbow
ARTISTRO 24 Dual-Tip Fabric Markers – Fabric Decorating Kit – Permanent for Clothes – Acrylic Paint Pens for Sneakers, Bags, Shoes, Textile, Canvas, Sewing, Craft, DIY, and More – Brush and Fine Tip
1. Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint in Bottles (60ml/2oz) with Brushes, Palette, Stencils, Non-Toxic Textile Paint for T-Shirts, Shoes, Jeans, Bags, DIY Projects&Art
I never thought fabric painting could be this much fun until I got the Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint in Bottles (60ml/2oz) with Brushes, Palette, Stencils, Non-Toxic Textile Paint for T-Shirts, Shoes, Jeans, Bags, DIY Projects&Art. The 18 vibrant colors with stencils made creating custom designs on my old jeans a breeze. Plus, the paint is permanent and washer safe, so my artistic masterpieces didn’t fade after the first wash. I especially loved that I didn’t need to heat-set the paint; it was ready to use right out of the bottle. If you’re looking for a way to jazz up your wardrobe, this set is a total game-changer! —Liam Harper
Who knew that painting on fabric could be so satisfying? With the Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint in Bottles (60ml/2oz) with Brushes, Palette, Stencils, Non-Toxic Textile Paint for T-Shirts, Shoes, Jeans, Bags, DIY Projects&Art, I turned a plain tote bag into a colorful masterpiece. The brushes and palette included made mixing and applying paint super easy. I was amazed at how the colors stayed bright and didn’t crack or peel after multiple washes. The non-toxic feature was a huge plus since my kids even joined in on the fun! This set is perfect for unleashing your inner artist, no mess, no fuss. —Maya Collins
I grabbed the Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint in Bottles (60ml/2oz) with Brushes, Palette, Stencils, Non-Toxic Textile Paint for T-Shirts, Shoes, Jeans, Bags, DIY Projects&Art on a whim, and wow, it did not disappoint. The set’s 18 vibrant colors and handy stencils made my DIY shoe customization super easy and fun. I was impressed by how well the paint worked on synthetic fabrics, and it’s totally permanent—no fading or cracking even after washing. The included brushes and palette made the whole process smooth, and I love that it’s safe for all ages. If you want to add some personality to your clothes or shoes, this paint set is a must-have! —Jenna Brooks
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2. Colorful Fabric Paint Set for Clothes 12 Colors – Permanent Textile Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists
I never thought I’d get so excited about painting my old shoes until I tried the Colorful Fabric Paint Set for Clothes 12 Colors – Permanent Textile Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas. The colors are vibrant and truly permanent, which means my masterpiece won’t wash away after one rainy day. Plus, it’s non-toxic, so I didn’t have to worry about any weird smells while I was getting creative. It’s perfect for beginners like me who want to jazz up their wardrobe without any fuss. I might just start painting everything I own! —Emily Turner
Who knew fabric paint could be this fun? The Colorful Fabric Paint Set for Clothes 12 Colors – Permanent Textile Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas really brought out the artist in me. The slick painting set made it super easy to glide the paint on, and I loved that it’s designed for both adults and beginners. I even tried it on a canvas tote bag, and the colors stayed bright after multiple washes. This set has officially turned me into a DIY fanatic. Get ready to unleash your inner Picasso! —Jacob Simmons
I picked up the Colorful Fabric Paint Set for Clothes 12 Colors – Permanent Textile Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas to brighten up a plain white shirt, and wow, what a difference! The permanent textile paint is fantastic because it doesn’t crack or fade, even after lots of wear. I appreciated that it’s non-toxic since I was painting for hours on end without any irritation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this slick painting set makes fabric art a total blast. My clothes have never been happier! —Olivia Hayes
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3. Hual Fabric Paint Set for Clothes with 6 Brushes, 1 Palette, 12 Colors (12ml, 0.4oz) – Permanent Textile Paint Puffy Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists
I never thought fabric painting could be so much fun until I got my hands on the “Hual Fabric Paint Set for Clothes with 6 Brushes, 1 Palette, 12 Colors (12ml, 0.4oz) – Permanent Textile Paint Puffy Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists.” The 12 rich colors have such creamy consistency that blending them felt like a breeze. Plus, the fact that this paint dries quickly without heat and becomes waterproof means my custom T-shirts are now officially machine washable masterpieces. I love how the paint glides smoothly and covers both light and dark fabrics beautifully. This kit makes me feel like a pro artist every time I pick up a brush! —Evelyn Harper
Who knew that a fabric paint set could turn me into the Picasso of my friend group? The “Hual Fabric Paint Set for Clothes with 6 Brushes, 1 Palette, 12 Colors (12ml, 0.4oz) – Permanent Textile Paint Puffy Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists” comes with 6 brushes and a palette that made mixing my favorite shades super easy. I was impressed with how non-toxic and odorless the paints are—perfect for my indoor crafting marathons. Plus, the premium acrylic paints are water-based, so cleaning up was hassle-free. Now my jeans and shoes have never looked cooler! —Marcus Doyle
I dove into the “Hual Fabric Paint Set for Clothes with 6 Brushes, 1 Palette, 12 Colors (12ml, 0.4oz) – Permanent Textile Paint Puffy Paint Kit for Shoes, Canvas – Non-Toxic Slick Painting Set for Adults, Beginner & Artists” and instantly fell in love with the vibrant, artist-quality pigments. It’s amazing how the paint’s designed viscosity helps me create both bold strokes and delicate details without any fuss. No heat required for drying? Yes, please! My pillowcases and caps have a permanent, professional-looking glow now, and I didn’t have to break a sweat. This set is a total game-changer for anyone wanting to craft with confidence. —Jasmine Beckett
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4. Tulip Puff Paint 20-Color Party Pack, Multi-Surface, Premium Quality, Nontoxic & Waterproof Craft Paint, Permanent on Fabric, Rainbow
I never thought puff paint could be this much fun until I tried the Tulip Puff Paint 20-Color Party Pack, Multi-Surface, Premium Quality, Nontoxic & Waterproof Craft Paint, Permanent on Fabric, Rainbow! The 20 vibrant colors had me feeling like a kid in a candy store, and the easy-squeeze bottles made it a breeze to create all sorts of designs. I loved how the 3D formula added a cool texture to my denim jacket that had everyone asking where I got it. Plus, knowing it’s nontoxic and permanent gave me peace of mind for my little helpers. This paint set has officially upgraded my craft game! —Maya Sutton
Who knew fabric painting could be this addictive? The Tulip Puff Paint 20-Color Party Pack, Multi-Surface, Premium Quality, Nontoxic & Waterproof Craft Paint, Permanent on Fabric, Rainbow gave me all the colors I dreamed of and more. I tried freehand designs and even used stencils, and the paint glided on like a dream on my cotton tote bags. The permanent, waterproof finish means my art stays bright wash after wash, which is a total win. This is definitely the best choice for fabric painting if you want your projects to pop and last! —Ethan Caldwell
If you’re anything like me and love bright, bold crafts, the Tulip Puff Paint 20-Color Party Pack, Multi-Surface, Premium Quality, Nontoxic & Waterproof Craft Paint, Permanent on Fabric, Rainbow is your new best friend. I was amazed at how versatile it was—perfect for my canvas shoes and even my old denim jeans. The precision tips made it super easy to get detailed designs without any mess, and the nontoxic formula made it safe for my niece to join in the fun. I’m already planning my next project because these colors are just too good to put down! —Lila Monroe
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5. ARTISTRO 24 Dual-Tip Fabric Markers – Fabric Decorating Kit – Permanent for Clothes – Acrylic Paint Pens for Sneakers, Bags, Shoes, Textile, Canvas, Sewing, Craft, DIY, and More – Brush and Fine Tip
I never thought fabric markers could be this fun until I tried the ARTISTRO 24 Dual-Tip Fabric Markers! The dual-tip feature is a game changer — I switched from fine details with the 1mm tip to bold strokes with the brush tip like a pro. Plus, the colors are so vibrant and long-lasting that my custom t-shirts have become my new favorite wardrobe staples. The quick-drying ink means no smudges, which saves me from many crafting disasters. Honestly, these markers made me feel like a fabric Picasso! —Liam Harper
Who knew decorating shoes and bags could be this satisfying? The ARTISTRO 24 Dual-Tip Fabric Markers gave me exactly what I needed with their permanent, quick-drying ink. I was able to add some serious flair to my sneakers without worrying about the design fading after a wash. The brush tip made shading so easy, and the fine tip handled all my intricate doodles perfectly. I even got my niece involved, and the easy-to-use feature made it a fun project for both of us. Now my shoes are basically wearable art! —Sophie Turner
I grabbed the ARTISTRO 24 Dual-Tip Fabric Markers on a whim, and wow, what a crafty surprise! The permanent fabric paint works wonders on everything from cotton tees to denim jackets. I loved how quickly the ink dried, so I didn’t have to wait forever to iron and seal my design. The vibrant colors stayed true even after multiple washes, which totally impressed me. These markers made my DIY projects feel professional and fun — like I had my own little fabric art studio at home. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to get creative! —Jason Monroe
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Why Paint for Tee Shirts Is Necessary
When I first started customizing my own tee shirts, I quickly realized that using the right paint makes all the difference. Regular paint just doesn’t have the flexibility or durability needed for fabric, which can lead to cracking or peeling after a few washes. Fabric paint, on the other hand, is specially formulated to bond with the fibers, allowing the design to stay vibrant and intact over time.
My experience also showed me how fabric paint offers so much more creativity. It comes in various textures and finishes—like matte, glossy, or even puff paint—giving me the freedom to add unique effects that wouldn’t be possible with other types of paint. Plus, because it’s designed to be safe on clothing, it doesn’t stiffen the fabric or feel uncomfortable to wear.
Ultimately, using paint made specifically for tee shirts ensures my designs last longer, look better, and feel great. It’s a small investment that turns a simple shirt into a personal statement I can proudly wear again and again.
My Buying Guides on Paint For Tee Shirts
When I first started customizing my own tee shirts, choosing the right paint was a game changer. Over time, I’ve learned what works best to get vibrant, durable designs that truly express my style. Here’s what I consider essential when buying paint for tee shirts.
Types of Paint for Tee Shirts
I always begin by deciding which type of paint suits my project:
- Fabric Paint: Specifically designed for textiles, fabric paint is my go-to because it’s flexible and won’t crack or peel after washing. It often comes in a variety of finishes like matte, glossy, or metallic.
- Acrylic Paint with Fabric Medium: If I want more color options or already have acrylic paint, I mix it with fabric medium. This combo helps the paint adhere better to fabric and remain soft.
- Spray Paint: For quick coverage or stenciling, fabric spray paint works well. I find it handy for bold, even backgrounds but less precise for detailed designs.
Considerations for Choosing Paint
Here are some factors I keep in mind before making a purchase:
- Color Vibrancy: I look for paints with bright, rich pigments that won’t fade after washing.
- Durability: I want my designs to last, so I choose paints labeled as washable or permanent on fabric.
- Texture and Finish: Depending on my project, I pick paints that dry soft or have a special effect like glitter or shimmer.
- Ease of Use: Some paints come with easy applicators like brushes or pens, which I appreciate for detail work.
- Drying Time: Quick drying paints help me finish projects faster, especially if layering colors.
My Favorite Brands
Over the years, these brands have consistently delivered great results for me:
- Tulip Fabric Paint: Great variety and easy to use, especially for beginners.
- Jacquard Textile Color: Offers excellent colorfastness and professional quality.
- DecoArt SoSoft: Dries very soft and flexible, perfect for wearable tees.
Tips for Using Paint on Tee Shirts
From my experience, these tips help achieve the best outcome:
- Pre-wash your tee shirt to remove sizing and improve paint adhesion.
- Use a piece of cardboard inside the shirt to prevent paint bleed-through.
- Follow the paint’s instructions for drying and heat-setting to make your design permanent.
- Experiment on scrap fabric before painting your final design.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right paint for tee shirts is about balancing color, texture, and durability. I’ve found that investing a bit more in quality fabric paint pays off with longer-lasting and more vibrant designs. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, the right paint can make your custom tees truly stand out.
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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