Can You Use Acrylic Paint On Nylon Fabric?
Planning to work with acrylic paint on nylon fiber? Wondering if you can use acrylic paint on nylon fabrics? Got your back! I did some research, and I wanna share them with you.
So, can you use acrylic paint on nylon fabric? Nylon fabrics are the easiest to paint on because their physical characteristics allow the paint to dry easily and sit well on its surface. So, yes, acrylic paints are easy to paint on nylon fabrics and are one of the best choices when painting on nylon. This fabric’s silk-like surface makes it easier to paint with acrylics, and its moisture-absorbing nature helps the paint dry faster.
Intrigued? That was just the preview. Later in the article, I will talk about the products that work best on nylon and give you an insight into how to make your artwork long-lasting. So, let’s get to the good part.

Does Acrylic Paint Work On Nylon Fabric?
Acrylic paint has a versatile chemical property that can be used on various surfaces. Well, it works for almost all types of surfaces, such as wood, plastic, rocks, canvas, paper, and fabric, to name a few.
It has a watery texture that would make it easy for you to wash. It glides over smooth surfaces like nylon cloth. Acrylic paints are famous for their rich textures and bright colors when dry.
So, what happens if you use acrylic paint on fabric? Acrylics do not endure long on their own on nylon fabrics. You have to prepare the nylon material beforehand.
If you apply acrylics directly to the clothing material, it might rinse away when you perform laundry. The paint may crack or peel off easily even if not washed, as there is nothing to bind it to your nylon’s fibers.
Why Does Using Acrylic Paint On Nylon Fabric Work?
Nylon bonds well with a wide range of paints. Acrylic paints work best on Nylon, as it adheres to acrylic paint. Acrylic paints and fabric paints are the best choices when you paint your nylons. They will bind to the nylon strands and resist water or washing damage.
Although, hand-washing painted nylon items and items is the best way to preserve them. However, you must mix your paint colors with an acrylic or textile medium.
I prefer to paint nylon fabric using acrylic paint combined with fabric medium. In this way, you will be able to retain the paint on the cloth.
Can You Dye Nylon Doll Hair With Acrylic Paint?
Dolls’ hair is made with nylon or saran synthetic material. And so, you can dye it using an acrylic paint wash, but synthetic doll hair doesn’t take dye the way human hair does.
A doll with thick strands of nylon hair will take acrylic paint better than dolls with thin strands. If you add plenty of water to the acrylic paint, it will make the process easier. The paint may peel off after drying If the dye is too dense.
Interestingly, you can use acrylic paint to dye your wig, which is also usually made of nylon. A little bit of acrylic mixed with rubbing alcohol makes an effective dye. This leaves your wig looking vibrant and new.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint On Cordura Nylon?
Cordura fabrics are usually made of nylon but can be a blend of nylon with cotton or other natural fibers. Its fibers have high tensile strength and can survive long-term use.
It is both water-resistant and PU-coated. This might make the fabric much stiffer after the acrylic paint has dried and flake off in the long run.
And the clothing will feel uncomfortable. That’s why I prefer spray paint rather than a brush when it comes to painting Cordura nylon.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint On A Nylon Jacket?
Thinking of painting your boring plain nylon jacket? The good news is – you can use acrylic color as it sits well with nylon. But be more careful if you don’t want to ruin your jacket. Acrylic paint is difficult to remove, so be ready if you choose it.
A single blunder might mean doom. The key is to keep all your layers thin, as they can flake off. You could use a dry brush method.
If you are trying to paint the whole jacket, you should use a fabric paint medium and let it sit. Use many layers to achieve something that will survive for more than a few hours.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint On The Nylon Tent?
This may be harder than you might think it is. Nylon tents are often coated with chemicals that make them waterproof. As a result, the nylon will have difficulty adhering to the acrylic paint if you coat it on the fabric’s surface.
Furthermore, the paint lacks a flexible surface. That means, when you go to roll up the tent, the paint will crack. So, using acrylic paint for your nylon tents would not be the best idea.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint On Nylon Shorts?
Well, if you decide to paint your nylon shorts, they will become permanent once it dries. But it would be best if you use a heat setting or seal the art to prevent flaking.
It’s tricky to get acrylic paint out of a fabric after it dries, so you need to take a few extra precautions.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint On Nylon Rope?
Unfortunately, I don’t recommend using acrylic paint on thin nylon ropes. That is because synthetic rope such as nylon would not adhere to acrylic paint well. Thus, it might be a bad idea to try painting ropes made of nylon.
Can You Use Acrylic Spray Paint On Nylon Fabric?
Nylon fabric may be spray painted. When it comes to the spray can version, make sure to check the label to ensure it is safe to use on nylon. You could also mix regular brush-on paint with a fabric medium in a water spray bottle and spray your color onto your fabric.
This provides you with a distinct look that you may choose. Check all of your alternatives to determine which one is best for you. To protect your work, seal the acrylic paint with a layer of varnish or lacquer.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Acrylic Paint On Nylon Fabric?
I already told you that acrylics is one of the best choices for painting on nylon fabric. Now, let me explain why that’s the case.
- Acrylic paint adheres to nylon, and varnishing it would make the paint long-lasting.
- Acrylic paints dry rapidly, which makes the process faster.
- When painting nylon fabric, put several coats to make the color pop, and once the paint dries, it will stay. This makes painting new layers on top of previous ones simpler.
- Acrylic paints are an inexpensive option for painting on nylon fabrics. It would be a great affordable way of decorating them.
- Acrylic paints will bond to the nylon fibers and will stop the damage from water or the washing machine.
- Acrylic paints are more common and give you a broader range of colors. You can also choose a fabric medium specifically formulated for nylon to bring out the best of your project.
- Acrylics also come in opaque, metallic, or glittered paints, which you can’t find in all lines of fabric paints.
What Is The Best Way To Paint Nylon Fabric Using Acrylics?
Painting nylon fabric is very simple and easy. Follow these steps to extend the life of your artwork and safeguard your area from paint splatters.
Step 1: Protect Your Space
Use a barrier between your workspace and your project. It could be Plastic sheeting, drop cloth, or something similar.
Step 2: Take Care Of Clothing
Apply a wax resist material to any rough edges on the fabric you are working on, and later, remove the wax by dry-washing it. Wet a part of the fabric with diluted Flow-Aid.
Step 3: Additive To Soften The Edges
The same goes for your clothing. Wear an apron to protect your clothing and ensure that you only get paint on the nylon you’re painting.
Step 4: Wash Your Fabric
Your nylon must be clean and dry before you paint it. This prevents the paint from being disrupted by any dust or particles on the surface. It will also provide you with a smooth canvas to paint on. For best results, follow the fabric care instructions when washing your cloth.
Step 5: Prepare Your Fabric
Nylon is a thin, breathable fabric. The paint is most likely to seep through the layers. So, put a piece of cardboard or any protective layer under the fabric. This is will prevent the paint from leaking onto the rest of the garment. If you’re using a single-layer item, try to lay down cardboard to stop the nylon from sticking to the cloth.
Step 6: Secure Your Fabric
Using weights or painting tape, attach your fabric to your work surface. Make sure the fabric is smooth this will help you paint without any problems.
Step 7: Use A Fabric Medium
This will give your paint a perfect texture and prevent any peeling or breaking after it has dried.
Step 8: Allow It To Dry
Allow the item to dry flat after you’re satisfied with your design. It’s best not to hang it since the paint can drip. Make sure to keep it in a secure location where it will not be disturbed for several hours. You may start using it as soon as it’s dry.
Suggested Materials You May Need
I suggest using a fabric medium to prevent cracking. this will allow the paint to stay on the fabric you’re working on. It will make the painted surface softer and less harsh, making it more comfortable for the user.
Make sure to wash your cloth on the mild cycle with fabric softener and hang it to dry. This will help ensure that the acrylic paint lasts for years. Also, especially with darker textiles, make sure to wash and use cold water. This will keep your paint looking new.
#1 Golden Artist Colors GAC 900 : (Recommended Fabric Medium For Acrylics On Nylon)
When it comes to choosing a fabric medium, I would definitely recommend Golden Artist Colors GAC 900. It works well when used on nylons.
Besides, It is the finest fabric medium for nylon. You can use this product for a variety of fabrics due to its’ heat-set medium. You can also use it for screen printing, brush-on, and spray-on paints. GAC 900 will give you the best results on your creative project.
#2 DecoArt Crafter’s Acrylic : (Suggested Acrylic Paint For Nylon)
DecoArt Crafter’s Acrylic is the best acrylic paint for painting on nylon. Although there are paints that might work better. but you would want to use this nylon-exclusive brand.
You may get them online or at a local craft store near you. It’s quite easy to find and also not particularly costly. They come in a broad range of colors and finishes. If you maintain and use fabric mediums, they will last longer and feel comfortable once they dry.
Over To You
You made it to the end of this article! I have talked about using acrylic paints on different nylon products, dos and don’ts, steps, and so on.
To conclude, acrylic paints would work on most types of nylon. It’s easy to use and won’t be much trouble if you make sure to take proper measures as listed above.
And let me know if you have any questions about this topic or are curious about any points I might have missed. Hope you make the best of your work with acrylics and nylon.