If you’re looking for a fun project that combines crafting with high fashion, consider decorating plain clothing items with puff paint. This dimensional fabric paint is easy enough for a child to use, but can create a number of different looks. Imagine the compliments you’ll get when you proudly show off your one-of-a-kind outfit!

Puff paint is available at any major craft store and typically shelved with the decorative painting supplies. Tulip® Dimensional Fabric Paint is the most popular brand of puff paint. You can find puff paint in many different shades, including pastel, neutral, and neon colors. There are also metallic, pearlescent, or glow-in-the-dark paint options. Paints are sold both individually and in combination project sets. Puff paints aren’t designed to be mixed together, so remember to buy all of the necessary colors before beginning your project.

Since puff paint usually has a special applicator tip, no brushes are necessary. Simply apply even pressure to the tube to create a design made of dots, swirls, or fine lines. You can freehand an abstract pattern, personalize an item with your name, or use stencils to create a detailed image. Once you’ve painted the item, use an iron to raise and set the design.

T-shirts or sweatshirts are popular items to decorate with puff paint, although you can create a wide variety of wearable art projects. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can decorate pajamas, jeans, hats, hair bows, aprons, tote bags, or socks. You can even make yourself matching shoes to complete your puff paint outfit!

Although you can make impressive designs using just puff paint, many crafters like to combine techniques to create a more sophisticated look. For example, you could try sewing lace or ribbon trim on a decorated tote bag for a feminine feel. Another great idea is to use an iron on transfer on a plain apron and then accent the edges of the design with metallic puff paint.

Fabrics decorated with puff paint are machine washable, but hand washing in warm water with a mild detergent may be a good idea if you’re concerned about keeping your items in top condition. You’ll want to avoid placing items decorated with puff paint in your dryer, since the heat will warp and stretch the finished design.

Although puff paint is most often associated with wearable art crafts, this paint is surprisingly versatile. You can use your paints to decorate wooden keepsakes or picture frames. In fact, many crafters like to use puff paints to add dimension to scrapbooking layouts, handmade greeting cards, and other paper crafting projects.