Tips for Decorating Denim

Fabric Paint. There are so many different types of fabric paints available today, including textured, flat, glitter, and more, that you’re sure to find the right colors and textures for your denim.

Be sure to read the instructions before starting as most fabric paints require shaking, others require heat setting or other treatment, and drying times will vary. Fabric paint can be used to create freehand designs, to work with stencils, or even for stamping!

To stamp with fabric paint, add enough paint to felt or another surface so that it is very wet and covers a surface larger than your stamp.

Place your stamp in the paint…

… then scrape away any excess paint by wiping the stamp on the side of a hard surface. Position your stamp and then press it down very firmly, applying some pressure. Lift it carefully so you don’t drag the paint.

While the fabric paint is wet, you can use a wet cotton swap to wipe away any excess paint or mistakes on your denim.

When using fabric paint, keep in mind that the colors may look different wet and dry. You may also find that some colors are not as visible on darker denims…

but are quite bold on a lighter pair of jeans. For best results, test the paint on a small area of denim and then heat set and/or dry following manufacturer’s instructions to see if you like the color before starting a larger project.

Fabric Markers. Fabric markers and pens are similar to fabric paints…

…but you don’t need brushes, stamps, or other tools for applying them to fabric. Some fabric markers are even specifically made for working on darker fabrics like denims.

As with fabric paints, following the instructions for application and drying. Test a small area to see how colors look when wet…

…and then compare to the colors when dry to ensure you will be getting the look you prefer for your project.

Hand Embroidery. Stitching on denim can add both texture and color. You can trace a design onto jeans using a fabric marker or chalk, or work freestyle using favorite stitches.

If you plan to use the embroidered denim in a quilt or other project, cut the denim fabric before you get started. Use fabric stabilizer or embroider with a hoop since denim may stretch and become difficult to embroider with otherwise.

Buttons. Use fabric glue, embroidery floss, or yarn to attach buttons to denim in a decorative pattern.

Heat Transfer Vinyl or Iron-On. Use a cutting machine, pre-cut iron-on shapes, or iron-on printer paper to create designs to add to denim with heat. Here’s an easy tutorial for personalized denim sachets to get you started.

Crochet, Knitting, or Yarn. Use fabric glue or sew with a chenille needle if you want to add crochet or knit patches to denim. This crochet pattern is actually worked right onto the denim!

Looking for more tips for crafting with denim? Check out Marie's 11 tips for upcycling jeans on her blog, Underground Crafter.