The Best Spray Paints for Shirts to Customize Your Clothes

What is the first thing you do to save your old shirts? How do you deal with faded colors and worn-out prints? If it is your favorite shirt, you probably have tried many ways to recover its immaculate condition or at least render minor repairs.

Your last resort is to toss it in the bin or turn it into one of your rags at home. But if you are not ready to give them up yet, it is the perfect time to revamp your old wardrobe pieces with a fresh and unique look using the best spray paint for shirts.

Now that you have decided to spruce up your shirts with pops of colors, the next question is, which fabric spray paint for t-shirts should you choose? What are the top products you can try? Lastly, what are the factors to consider before buying fabric spray paint? We are going to figure out the answers to these questions in this in-depth guide and review.

Here is what you should know first: The color appearance, longevity, and vibrancy of spray paint may vary according to the type of clothing fabric. Thus, it is important to check the compatibility of spray paint with various fabric types to get your desired colors and designs. The paint’s consistency is also a key to achieving amazing results.

Best Spray Paint for Shirts Reviews

1. Tulip 29069 Permanent Fabric Spray Paint

This 9-piece set of vibrant rainbow colors is no doubt an excellent choice to exhibit your art skills on shirts and other fabric surfaces. I have always fancied these colors as they can elevate my shirts with a more creative appearance and brighter hues.

What I love about this Tulip spray paint is that they appear better once it dries. The color doesn’t fade or disappear despite several washes. The lightfastness of the colors preserves the beauty of painted patterns and prints.

I must say that it is permanent as the manufacturer claims. Impressively, the highly pigmented shades are long-lasting, showcasing a wide variety of colors, especially on folding and tie-dye techniques.

Moreover, the best thing about this paint is that it does not affect the fabric in any way. The softness and quality of the shirt remain even when there are paint splatters anywhere. It does not feel overly stiff or rough like other fabric spray paint does.

Aside from that, I did not find any issues with the nozzle. Since these are non-aerosol paint bottles, it is easier to control the paint and direct it to the areas that need recoloring. It can build rich colors and provide beautiful paint splatters and spritzes at the same time.

2. Simply Spray WSS25969 Fabric Spray Paint

The eye-candy color selection makes this Simply Spray fabric paint one of my favorites for decorating old shirts. I have always been a sucker for vibrant and colorful embellishments and this product does a great job so far.

A little goes a long way with this one. Unlike typical spray paint products I have used before, this one dispenses heavy spray for every push. Although I prefer a fine projected mist for some of my projects, the advantage of this one is that I do not have to add layers to achieve deep and opaque colors.

Aside from that, it dries fast, preventing any messy drips and runs. As soon as it dries completely, the paint does not feel rough or crunchy but leaves a smooth finish. The fabric still feels soft, making it comfortable to wear.

Another important feature is the safe formulation. This spray paint is non-toxic; thus, it is a crucial factor to consider if you are going to use it with kids. I also appreciate that it does not smell as bad as most aerosol paint products.

3. Tulip 31424 Permanent Fabric Spray Paint ‎

You do not need much paint when working on small projects. With that said, this fabric spray paint set from Tulip offers the perfect size for quick and dainty decorations.

The spray paint bottles are compact and portable, making them easier to use whenever and wherever you need them. Moreover, the ultimate benefit is you get to try all the colors first before you invest in their large sizes.

Impressively, the spray paint bottles highlight stunning neon shades that can add vibrant colors to your old shirts. Aside from spray, this paint features a nozzle that can be splattered and spritzed. This allows you to create colorful washes or abstract effects with this paint apart from using stencils.

When it comes to their color appearance and quality, the shades give off decent vividness that works on white and black shirts. I must say that the paint is not as vibrant as I want it to be, but if you fancy subtle colors, you are all good with this paint.

Although the manufacturer advertises it as permanent, I am not sure it is since it fades after several washes. Some may find it disappointing but that can be an advantage for young artists and kids who want to practice their creative crafts with shirts. Not to mention that this paint is non-toxic.

I also recommend this for beginners who are experimenting with colors and abstract designs. Since the paint is temporary, I bet there is no need to worry a lot about making mistakes. It will disappear after repeated washes anyway.

4. Montana Cans GOLD ‎MXG-S900 Acrylic Spray Paint

Adding a little bit of glam to your old shirt takes some creativity and great quality paint. And if it is all about sophisticated yet glamorous paint designs, I cannot think of anything else but this lavish black paint from Montana Cans.

Mind you, Montana GOLD is not a gold color. It refers to the brand’s color system that provides semi-gloss colors including metallic, effect, and transparent hues. Therefore, this feature allows you to achieve various finish types. This shock black spray paint has a semi-gloss finish that works great on shirts.

This paint is highly pigmented, quick-drying, and incredibly long-lasting. It delivers excellent coverage that conceals imperfections, which is something I need to cover faded prints and colors. Plus, the color is lightfast and durable.

As soon as it dries, it does not leave any crack but rather a smooth and beautiful finish. The advantage of this is that you can create designs while preserving the quality and softness of the fabric.

The fact that it dries quickly makes it possible to layer colors and achieve various depths and hues. This way, it keeps the painted designs neat and free from messy drips and runs.

I also want to highlight the versatile cap system that can optimize paint application. Since the nozzle is interchangeable, it can deliver multiple spray widths varying from ultra-thin to ultra-wide. This enables you to easily paint surfaces with your desired speed, efficiency, and precision.

The combination of low-pressure spray, versatility, and opacity allows you to create any style and color you want. Whether small or large-scale projects, I bet this is one of the best spray paint for shirts to use.

5. Tulip 29849 Permanent Neon Fabric Spray Paint

For dyeing light-colored or white shirts with a splatter effect, one of the products that come to mind is this Tulip permanent fabric spray paint set. Just like the other paint sets from this brand, the bright neon colors give off stunning quality.

These portable paint bottles come with non-aerosol spray nozzles that can easily target areas you want to dye. The pump spray design delivers a splatter effect and vibrant spritzes that can create abstract paint styles.

Apart from that, all the colors in this set are highly pigmented. That is why they come out so vivid and rich even when drawing intricate details or small prints. Plus, the color variety renders a stunning spectrum of colors. They work great on tie-dyes and folding techniques.

Compared to the other Tulip spray paint I mentioned before, I noticed that this spray paint lasts longer and is seemingly permanent. After washing the shirt several times, I am surprised that the colors held up pretty well and did not fade.

One more thing, the painted areas in the fabric did feel stiff or rough at all. Amazingly, the shirt stays soft, making it comfortable to wear for long periods.

Although it is useful for spritzes or color splatters, that can also be a downside for creating precise details or complex prints. Therefore, I do not recommend this paint if you aim for accurate applications.

6. Rust-Oleum 248918 Fabric & Vinyl Spray Paint

When some shirts or old fabric projects need heavy-duty coverage, Rust-Oleum is among the best ones worth trying. This Fabric & Vinyl spray is mostly used on leather seats, floor mats, or sofa covers to conceal flaws, cracks, and other imperfections.

With that in mind, you can imagine the coverage and quality this paint can provide. The first time I sprayed it on a white shirt, the color looked incredibly pigmented and vibrant. I was worried it would crack or peel off but I am glad it did not turn out that way.

The paint has a rubbery feel similar to professionally printed and designed shirts. Furthermore, the paint lasts longer and is amazingly durable. That is why I recommend this spray paint for sturdy, polished, and vibrant prints that do not wear out easily.

Another concern is whether or not it fades after repeated washes. Impressively, the shirt I painted has gone through several washes and the paint did not fade at all. However, it may fade and wear out if the paint did not go through proper drying time.

I have discovered that the key is to allow the paint to dry for a week before washing it. It makes a huge difference to the appearance, longevity, and color quality. When it dries, it leaves a glossy finish that spruces up the shirt with a neat and sophisticated print.

Moreover, using it with stencils is hassle-free. Thanks to its any-angle spray technology, it sprays seamlessly no matter what angle you go for. Thus, it completes the job quickly.

7. Tulip 37639 Multicolor Fabric Spray Paint

Among the primary benefits of aerosol fabric spray paint, what I like best is the smooth and even coverage. It’s why I am more glad that Tulip has this variant in this multicolor Color Shot fabric dye spray.

There are no messy splatters or drips with this spray paint. Therefore, working with stencils and delicate shirt designs has never been easier. Hence, it preserves the neatness and sharpness of the writings or drawings, especially if you like to keep everything spotless.

Besides that, the colors lend rich and pigmented hues that can beautifully showcase your desired prints. I can tell that they have darker undertones, which look great on white or light-colored shirts. This set is also an ideal option if you do not fancy blinding shades such as neon.

Since it is easy to use, painting with stencils and tie-dye techniques is not a problem. Moreover, the colors last long and are fade-resistant even when washed several times. Not to mention that it is UV and weather-resistant.

Due to its vividness and superb paint quality, it can cover dull prints and other imperfections, giving your shirt a brand new look whether it is synthetic or natural fabric.

8. Dupli-Color HVP100 Vinyl and Fabric Spray

Another best option for durable fabric paint is this one from Dupli-Color. It takes the quality up a notch with its heavy-duty paint quality that resists cracking, peeling, or chipping.

Although it boasts efficiency and compatibility with vinyl and other forms of fabric, it also works great on shirts. The glossy finish lends a smooth and elegant appearance that resembles professional shirt prints.

This paint comes in vibrant red that will stand out on both dark-colored and light-colored shirts. Its superb pigment quality revamps old shirts and dull prints with a beautiful pop of color.

Moreover, the paint provides optimum coverage to conceal faded prints and dull colors. I remember using it with pattern and word stencils, and the paint turned out exceptionally smooth and even.

Thankfully, it features an EZ Touch Conical Nozzle that sprays easily and seamlessly over the fabric. I am impressed by how it covers the fabric quickly using its wide spray mist. Then, it is dry to touch for as fast as 30 minutes but allow 8 hours or overnight to dry completely.

Just a quick note: the paint feels stiff once it dries. It does not affect or damage the fabric in any way, but I recommend using it for dainty prints or stencils and not for the whole shirt as it might feel uncomfortable to wear.

The colors do not fade and are incredibly resistant after repeated washes. However, it is best to leave it for a week before washing it.

9. Rust-Oleum 358831 Specialty Outdoor Fabric Paint

Rust-Oleum is among the trustworthy brands I turn to when it comes to upcycling projects. This includes reworking shirts for better and brighter printed designs. With that in mind, this Specialty Outdoor Fabric spray paint is a good pick for decent paint quality.

If there are two unique things about this paint, that would be its resistance to water and durability. These are impressive features since some fabric paints wear out easily over time, especially after frequent washes.

Fortunately, this spray paint handles fading and potential damages very well, keeping your desired patterns and prints neat and smooth. Moreover, it lends rich and long-lasting colors that ramp up your shirt’s appearance.

In addition to that, there is no need to worry about paint cracks or chips with its specialized polyurethane formula. This prevents discoloration and other issues due to exposure to UV and wavering weather conditions.

Although this product highlights excellent protection against outdoor elements, this also defines the paint’s efficient performance on shirts. Therefore, you can expect promising quality that provides ample coverage and a highly pigmented color range.

There is no hassle spraying with its any-angle nozzle design. You can easily target areas that need painting without experiencing finger fatigue. Plus, it dispenses a lot of paint that covers the fabric with just fewer coats.

Aside from that, I love how the paint remains soft and smooth, unlike other paints that usually feel hard and rough. As it preserves the fabric’s quality, it also makes the shirt comfortable to wear.

10. Tulip 26572 Glitter Spray Paint

Can you spray paint a shirt with some glitter? I bet you can as long as you have the correct type of paint. With that said, among the fabric paint products that worked for me is this Glitter spray paint from Tulip.

First of all, it is all about glamorous and shimmery finishes. This paint had done a great job when I added some sheerness and sparkles to my cousin’s galaxy-themed shirt. The print looked more vivid and realistic because of the glitters.

With just a few spritzes, it releases a wide mist that covers the shirt nicely. For splatter effects, I just pushed the nozzle halfway. The glitters look attractive and not overwhelming, leaving the shirt uniformly covered with sparkles.

Although it works best on light-colored fabrics, this glitter paint also does on dark-colored shirts. Remember that this is used for additional decorative details and not meant to conceal major flaws.

Anyhow, this paint holds up pretty well. Despite frequent washes, I am impressed by how these dainty sparkles lingered for a long time. But the key is to let it dry for a couple of hours or overnight to enhance adhesion.

Moreover, this bottle comes in a compact size, making it easy to use whenever and wherever you need it. I also did see any problem with the nozzle as it sprays easily and evenly.

11. Krylon K05569007 COLORmaxx Spray Paint

I am sure you are wondering why this Krylon spray paint takes a spot on this list. First of all, it is specially designed for shirts. Although it offers great adhesion on multiple surfaces such as fabric, I tested it only on cushions and sofa and not on delicate types such as cotton or nylon.

However, this spray paint is a game-changer. Honestly, COLORmaxx is truly among the reliable spray paint products for premium coverage and color quality. If you were to use this, I would not use it heavily on fabric as it seeps through and will ruin the fabric eventually.

Since it is intended for sturdier fabric types, I recommend using light sprays only. A few spritzes go a long way, so you can see the colors right away. There is no need to layer the colors to achieve deep and pigmented hues.

Furthermore, I suggest using this when adding minor paint details or decorations to your shirt. For example, it can work on small prints and patterns or stencils. You can also take advantage of the paint’s opacity to cover some imperfections.

It can also be used to supplement some colors with a tie-dye technique. It sprays evenly and seamlessly so going for quick and light sprays is not a problem.

What to Look for When Buying Spray Paint for Shirts

Determine the Project Scale

How much spray paint do you need? It all depends on the scale of your target DIY projects. When it comes to reworking and painting old t-shirts, 1 to 3 ounces of paint will suffice for every color you choose. Some brands offer spray paint sets that might be a practical option for beginner painting activities or small projects.

Color Selection and Appearance

The spray paint for clothes comes in a vast array of colors. Whichever color selection you choose, what matters is their opacity and vividness, allowing you to showcase your artistic designs with a beautiful spectrum of colors.

Fortunately, a lot of brands offer spray paint sets so you can try different colors for your shirts. Aside from color quality, the appearances or finishes may differ once you apply them to your shirts. Some paint leaves a smooth finish while other brands feel slightly rough. If you want to add sheerness to your shirts, glitter spray paint is available.

Consistency and Paint Quality

It is crucial to consider the paint’s consistency to achieve smooth and clean finishes. This prevents messy drips, clogging, runs, streaks, and paint pooling, keeping your shirt beautifully and neatly painted without damaging your desired designs. The nozzle type and quality also make a huge difference.

You do not want to settle for watery paint consistency as it will splatter on your shirt and ruin the color and overall appearance. If the paint is thin, it is ideal to use with an airbrush system for effortless and seamless application as well as to achieve artistic watercolor effects.

Moreover, color retention varies from brand to brand. Some provide excellent color quality that does not easily wear out even after several washes whereas some spray paint fades eventually. Some are incredibly permanent and machine washable.

Consider the Drying Time

This factor determines whether or not you can recoat or add layers of paint on your shirt as well as when you can wear and wash it. Some spray paint brands require at least 30 minutes before you can apply more paint and about 4 up to 72 hours before you can wear and wash your shirt.

Compatibility with Fabric

If you are wondering what kind of spray paint to use on t-shirts, it should be compatible with your fabric. This ensures superb color effects and smooth finishes on your shirts. Remember that it can greatly affect the results; otherwise, the paint might spread all over your shirt and cause messy blotches and bleed-throughs.

Some spray paint for canvas fabric works well with cotton but some do not. Other brands are specially formulated for cotton while some are suitable for all types of fabric. Always read the manufacturer’s labels regarding this.

Safe Formulation

Aerosol products such as spray paint usually leave an unpleasant or strong chemical odor that might lead to headaches, burning nose sensation, dizziness, and other irritations. You do not want that when reworking your favorite shirts. Fortunately, many brands offer non-toxic and low-odor spray paint for safe and hassle-free use.

Does Spray Paint Stick to Cotton

Yes, it does. In fact, it is one of the popular and best fabrics to use for spray paint. Just make sure you are using 100% cotton to deter any color and quality issues. Moreover, a lot of spray paint brands are compatible with cotton fabric; thus, it is imperative that you are using one for your cotton shirt.

What to Use to Spray Paint on a Shirt

Here are the things you need: the best spray paint for t-shirts, cardboard, and a hairdryer.

Before you start painting and reworking your shirt, make sure you are using spray paint that is compatible with your fabric.

Next, you prep the shirt and place a piece of cardboard inside to give you a flat and stable surface to work on. Then, use spray paint to decorate your shirt according to your desired design. You may also use stencils for an intricate and crisp layout. Use a hairdryer afterward to speed up drying.

Conclusion

The best spray paint for shirts can give your old shirts a brand new look and showcase colorful prints, vibrant hues, and long-lasting paint quality. Due to its wide color selection, you can mix and play with spray paint and unleash your creativity with unlimited design ideas. You also can refer to use spray paints for your shoes.

Some might find it a little intimidating to rework old clothes and achieve flawless results. Well, in fact, it is fun to do and even more so when using the correct fabric spray paint. Just make sure to consider the factors mentioned and the roundup of top-notch products, and you are good to go!

Robert S. Brown

I am a former art teacher, so it is evident to me the importance of art in educating the new generation. We also want to help parents who plan to teach their children and desire the best tools and tips for them.