Fabric Painting Fabric Preparation and Priming 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Why should fabric be washed before applying fabric paint?
- To make it softer
- To remove sizing and finishes that block paint absorption (Correct answer)
- To increase its stretch
- To change its color
Correct answer: To remove sizing and finishes that block paint absorption
Pre-washing removes factory sizing, starch, and chemical finishes that prevent paint from properly bonding with fabric fibers.
Question 2: What is the purpose of stretching fabric on a frame before painting?
- To prevent the fabric from wrinkling and moving during painting (Correct answer)
- To make the fabric absorb more paint
- To increase the drying speed
- To align the fabric weave
Correct answer: To prevent the fabric from wrinkling and moving during painting
Stretching fabric taut on a frame keeps it stable, preventing puckering and movement that would distort brushwork and designs.
Question 3: Which type of fabric generally requires the least preparation before fabric painting?
- 100% polyester
- 100% pre-washed cotton (Correct answer)
- Waterproof nylon
- Heavily starched linen
Correct answer: 100% pre-washed cotton
Pre-washed 100% cotton is ideal for fabric painting because it readily absorbs paint and has no coatings to interfere with adhesion.
Question 4: What happens if you paint on fabric that still contains sizing?
- The paint becomes brighter
- The paint may peel or resist penetrating the fibers (Correct answer)
- The fabric becomes waterproof
- The colors blend more easily
Correct answer: The paint may peel or resist penetrating the fibers
Sizing creates a barrier on fabric fibers that prevents paint from bonding properly, often resulting in peeling or uneven color.
Question 5: Why is a plastic sheet or wax paper commonly placed under fabric during painting?
- To keep the fabric warm
- To prevent paint from bleeding through and sticking to the work surface (Correct answer)
- To improve paint adhesion
- To stretch the fabric tighter
Correct answer: To prevent paint from bleeding through and sticking to the work surface
A protective barrier beneath the fabric catches bleed-through paint, preventing the fabric from adhering to the work surface.
Question 6: What is fabric gesso used for in fabric painting?
- Removing stains from finished work
- Priming fabric to create a stiffer, more paint-receptive surface (Correct answer)
- Thinning acrylic fabric paint
- Setting heat-fixed designs
Correct answer: Priming fabric to create a stiffer, more paint-receptive surface
Fabric gesso primes the surface, creating a slightly textured, absorbent ground that helps paint adhere better, especially on slick fabrics.
Fabric Painting Fabric Preparation and Priming 1
Why should fabric be washed before applying fabric paint?