Ok....I admit it! I LOVE painting on denim!
Denim jackets.....jeans.....overalls......the older the denim the better!
Today's denim is brand spanking new! In fact...my client ordered the pants and had them shipped directly to me in the package with tags on.....for me to paint!
She even sent me an inspiration photo...which I would usually share here...but it was the side of some random woman's thigh...in her panties! She had great legs! LOL! And a huge tattoo! So I painted her tattoo design on my client's leg.....her pant leg!!
I always draw my design in chalk first. Once I have it locked down the way I like it.....I trace over the chalk line with a Sharpie marker.
I usually freehand my designs....but am known to use regular household object to trace shapes such as using this cereal bowl to create a perfect circle. The trick to keeping your design soft and supple is to use plenty of water during your painting process. Keeping your denim surface wet as you apply paint....allows the paint to seep into the fibers of the denim vs. sitting on top of the denim and creating a skin.
Using Dixie Belle chalk paint, I usually paint my background and surrounding areas first.
I then begin work on the main subject.
I use mid-tone colors first.....and color block out all areas.
This allows me to go back with deeper shades to add depth....and lighter shades to add highlights.
I love watching the natural pigments of my Dixie Belle Paints flow naturally into the saturated denim....its like magic before my eyes.
I usually allow the paint to dry in phases....come back and re-wet to add my final highlights.
At the very end.....I go back over the entire pieces with a permanent oil-based paint pen.....for the deep outlines.
Once it's fully dry.....I give it a good scuff with one of my Dixie Belle sanding sponges....brush off really well....and heat set with an iron.
Once cool....I apply Dixie Belle's spray wax.....with a brush....soaking the painted areas really well. I advise to not wash for 30 days to allow the paint to fully cure....then wash on delicate and hang to dry.
If you'd like to try this on your own but lack the confidence to get started.....I have a pre-recorded tutorial available in my shop.
I will walk you through every step while demonstrating for you! It's a great investment for the crafty....as this is a gift that keeps on giving! There is always denim waiting to be painted!
More inspiration...denim & canvas
I have been painting on denim (and canvas) for years. It make the perfect personalized gift...and with the right supplies and technique, it is very easy to do. Here are a few other pieces for inspiration. Click on any photo for detailed photos and descriptions...
Shop: painted denim jeans
The products listed here are what I used for these painted denim jeans! Dixie Belle Paint company offers amazing products that will make all of your projects successful no matter what your skill level! Just click on any of the products shown below! You can also find my favorite products and tools in my Amazon influencer list here.
Here's how it works...these products are attached to my name. When you purchase by clicking from my blog.....then Dixie Belle offers a kickback to me for referring you! It doesn't cost you any more to use my links....and the support helps me to bring you new projects! So I thank you in advance!!!
