Directions
Prepare to paint
I use a knotted resist technique
to get subtle linear designs. In
addition, the cheesecloth is much
easier to paint when knotted and
you will need less paint. Before you
start painting, set up a drying area.
The area must be large enough to
accommodate as many pieces of
cheesecloth as you plan to paint.
- Cover your work surface with
the plastic sheeting. Place the
bed sheet or drop cloth on top
of the plastic to absorb excess
paint.
OPTIONAL: Set up a fan to circulate
air and help speed up the drying process.
- Cut the cheesecloth into
manageable lengths. I prefer to
work with 12" x 36" pieces. - Make 5–6 knots in each length
of the cheesecloth. Do not pull
the knots too tight; you will be
unknotting it while wet in a later
step.
fi gure 1 fi gure 2
Photoscourtesy^ of^ JulieB.BoothPrepare to paint
I use a knotted resist technique
to get subtle linear designs In
Mix paint colors
Most transparent fabric paints
need to be diluted before applying
to the cheesecloth. Before adding
water, mix a selection of colors
(see “Tips for Mixing ‘Custom’
Colors”).- Pour approximately 1 teaspoon
of paint into a small plastic
container. - Add water to dilute the paint to
the consistency of skim milk.
TIP: For this step, I use a plant mister
because it allows me more control over
the amount of water I add. (fi gure 1)Tips for Mixing
‘Custom’ Colors- Always start with the lighter hue,
and then gradually mix in small
amounts of the darker paint.
(fi gure 2) - Colors such as black or red can
dramatically change a color. To
control this, add just 1 drop at a
time. - To mix a pastel color, start with a
separate small plastic container
with water. Gradually add drops
of the mixed paint color to the
water.