Q&A for How to Paint on Silk

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  • Question
    How do I remove wax from a silk scarf after painting it?
    Community Answer
    Iron it between sheets of newsprint paper without any print on it. Change the paper as needed. If you don't have newsprint available, use normal white paper from your printer.
  • Question
    Where do I buy the silk and the dyes?
    Community Answer
    You can find the dyes at discount department stores, such as Walmart, and you can find the silk at art supply stores, such as Blick Art Materials.
  • Question
    Do I need to "set" the color so it won't run?
    Community Answer
    Yes, if the paint is specifically for steam fixing then it must be steam fixed, or you can also purchase iron fix paints which can be fixed by pressing them after they are dry.
  • Question
    Do I need to wash the fabric before I paint it?
    Community Answer
    You don't have to, however it is recommended just to get rid of any debris that might be on the scarf.
  • Question
    How do I avoid light stripes on the edges of the scarf? When the scarf is drying, the stripe is more and more intense. It is approximately 2 cm on all edges.
    Community Answer
    Use a larger frame so that the edge of the material is not touching the silk; you will get a more even distribution of the silk paint.
  • Question
    What is rubbing alcohol? Where can I buy it?
    Community Answer
    Rubbing alcohol is also called "isopropanol". If you're in the US you should be able to find it at any grocery store or pharmacy. It's a common household item and is usually used to disinfect.
  • Question
    Can embroidery be painted over with matching colors?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but the dye won't absorb unless the embroidery is lighter than the paint/dye and only if the embroidery thread can absorb the dye. Polyester thread will need dye for synthetic fabrics.
  • Question
    How do I draw a straight line around the edge to create an area to make a painted border?
    Community Answer
    You can create a clean line with masking tape, then apply your resist and lift the tape while it is still a little wet. The resist is like keeps all the dye within its border as long as the border is connected with no breaks.
  • Question
    Can dry cleaner solvent remove gutta?
    Community Answer
    Yes, dry cleaner solvent can remove gutta but if you used a water based gutta then you can wash it out with water. However, you need to iron the picture for about 10 minutes to make sure that it will come out.
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