Fabric paint is a type of paint which is specifically designed for use on textiles. It is often used to create custom craft projects, and is also used on a commercial scale to apply patterns and decorations to textiles. Working with fabric paint is much like working with normal paint, and most craft stores carry an assortment of fabric paints designed for different materials and looks. Fabric paint is not the same as fabric dye, although fabric dye can be applied like paint onto some textiles.

As a general rule, natural fibers like silk, linen, and cotton take best to fabric paint. Cotton will take most types of fabric paint, while specialized paints are recommended for silk and linen. Treated fabrics will tend to resist fabric paint, as will many synthetics. The material to be painted should always be washed first, and generally must sit for at least 72 hours before being washed again. The individual fabric paint will include specific washing and care instructions.

A variety of configurations of fabric paint are available. Very runny fabric paint is often designed to mimic watercolors, and allows the craftsperson to brush it on. Silk paints, for example, are usually made thin. Thicker fabric paint comes out almost like paste, and may be used to create raised lines and designs on a garment. In addition to an array of colors, fabric paint also comes in metallic forms. Fabric paint should always be tested on a small region of the fabric first, to see how the color will turn out.

Most companies sell fabric paint in tubes. The fabric paint can be squeezed out onto a palette or into a dish to work with, or the tube can be used as an applicator. Fabric paint pens are all available, for drawing directly on fabric. Fabric spray painting is also a popular craft activity, and several companies manufacture fabric spray paint. The craftsperson can freehand the paint, use a stencil, or draw a design onto the fabric and paint over it. Brushes, sponges, and rollers can all be used with fabric paint to created desired designs and looks.

Fabric painting can be combined with other craft techniques. For example, wax or a similar compound can be applied to a textile before painting for a resistance dyed look. When the material is washed, the wax will disappear, leaving behind a pattern in the paint. Many people also glue or applique ornaments onto textiles, in addition to using fabric paint. Fabric painting is a fun activity for children, as well.