Sharpies and Fabric

Here’s a really cool looking project that takes just a few ordinary supplies: cotton knit fabric, permanent markers and rubbing alcohol. The ideal match is with tshirts, but if that is difficult due to time or budgets, a swatch of fabric is just as fun.

1. Place a bowl or container under the fabric and wrap the edge with a rubber band. Adjust the fabric so that it is smooth.
2. Draw a design with permanent markers. Lines, dots, any kind of radial design.
3. Use a fluffy watercolor brush to apply rubbing alcohol to the center of the design. Keep dabbing and adding more to the center so that the alcohol starts to spread. Repeat until the circle is wet and all the lines are soft and fuzzy.
4. Remove bowl and rubber band and repeat process in as many other areas as possible.

Washing Instructions: I haven’t tested all the washing options necessary to keep the designs from fading, but I imagine that following all the steps taken for tie dye shirts would apply – ironing, soaking in vinegar and washing items separately.

Kathy Barbro

Sharpies and Fabric