Art supplies can sometimes be an issue just like Acrylic paint. Acrylic paint stains are among the most common mishaps for artists, but there's no need to worry! Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be able to remove acrylic from fabric in no time.
Are Acrylic Paints Permanent?
The short answer is not necessarily. Acrylic paints are water-based, meaning they are designed to be removable with water. Some acrylic stains may set into the fabric if left there long enough, but this varies depending on what the paint is mixed with and how much time it's given to dry onto the material.
Even though acrylic stains are removable, it's important to note that some dyes on fabrics are not colourfast. This means that they can run when exposed to water, which is why it's so essential for the material to be washed thoroughly in warm water before being dried. While a slight hue may be left once the stain has been removed, this should go away when the fabric is dry.
How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Fabric
Here are simple ways you can try if you want to remove stains caused by acrylic paints from fabrics.
1.) Soak the Stains in Dish Soap
Start by putting a few tiny drops of dish soap onto the paint stains. Then, carefully blot the fabric with warm water until all the soapy mixtures are gone. Repeat this process as many times as necessary until you no longer see any traces of acrylic on your fabric.
2.) Wash the Stains with Water and Detergent
Another way to remove acrylic stains is by washing them with water and detergent. First, fill up your sink or a large bowl with warm water, then add some dish soap into it. Next, submerge the fabric in the soapy solution for about fifteen minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Afterwards, wash the fabric in warm water with detergent, then let it dry on its own.
3.) Make a Paste out of Dish Soap and Baking Soda
Rather than using dish soap alone, another way to remove acrylic stains is by using a mixture of dish soap and baking soda. Mix two parts of dish soap to one part baking soda, then rub the paste onto the stains. Let it sit for about fifteen minutes, then wash thoroughly in warm water.
4.) Use Alcohol on Wet Stains
Another way to remove acrylic paint from fabric is by using alcohol. First, fill up a bowl or sink with warm water, then add vinegar. Submerge your fabric for fifteen minutes, then take it out very carefully. Once you have taken your material out, pour some alcohol onto the stain and rub in circular motions until the acrylic paint lifts. Then rinse with warm water and let the fabric dry on its own before washing it, usually in your washing machine.
5.) Try Dry-Cleaning
If all else fails, you can remove acrylic paint stains from the fabric by taking it to a dry-cleaning service. They will help you remove the paint without damaging the fabric.
Removing acrylic paint stains from fabric may seem daunting, but it can be done relatively quickly with these simple steps. By making a mixture of dish soap and warm water, you can start removing acrylic paint from fabric in no time. Just follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damages or shrinkage to your materials.
It's essential to be mindful when using acrylic paint on different surfaces, including canvas materials such as stretched canvas and canvas boards, to avoid unwanted stains or spills that may require removal.
