I’ve revived many faded couches, and the best fabric paint for upholstery transforms furniture without costly reupholstering.
These paints soak into fabrics, delivering vibrant, soft finishes that resist fading and washing.
Perfect for DIYers, they’re easy to apply on chairs, sofas, or car interiors. This roundup reviews 12 top paints, detailing features and benefits to help you refresh your upholstery with a durable, professional look effortlessly.
What Is the Best Fabric Paint for Upholstery?
The best fabric paint for upholstery is typically acrylic-based or mineral-based, formulated to bond with absorbent fabrics like cotton, polyester, or velvet.
These paints remain soft, preventing stiff textures, and are permanent, resisting wear and washing. Applied with brushes, sponges, or sprays, they suit furniture like sofas or car seats.
The top pick, Fabricoat Fabric Paint, excels with its flexible, non-cracking formula, offering vibrant colors for long-lasting upholstery transformations.
- Fabricoat Fabric Paint, 8.5 oz, Black
- Jacquard Textile Color, 8 oz, White
- Nicpro Black Fabric Paint, 33.8 oz
- Chalky Crown Permanent Fabric Paint, 15 Colors, 60 ml
- Tulip ColorShot Upholstery Spray Paint, 8 oz, Onyx
- Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors, 60 ml
- BLUEBIRD Fabric Paint, 3.4 oz, Lamp Black
- Roizefar Fabric Paint, 21 Colors, 20 ml
- Simply Spray Upholstery Fabric Paint, 8 oz, Black
- Mont Marte Fabric Paint Set, 8 Colors, 20 ml
- Arteza Permanent Fabric Paint, 30 Colors, 60 ml
- Delta Creative Fabric Paint, 2 oz, Black
Best Fabric Paint for Upholstery Reviews 2025
Fabricoat Fabric Paint, 8.5 oz, Black
This paint soaks into absorbent fabrics like cotton, polyester, or velvet, delivering a soft, flexible finish. It covers a dining chair or car seat with 8.5 oz, ideal for sofas or curtains. Apply with a sponge or brush for even coverage. Its non-toxic formula resists cracking and fading, even after washing. Perfect for DIYers, it restores old furniture with vibrant, durable color, avoiding costly reupholstering. Test on a small area first.
Key Features:
- 8.5 oz, acrylic-based
- Covers 1 dining chair
- Non-toxic, flexible
- Brush or sponge application
- Washable, fade-resistant
Benefits:
- Soft, non-stiff finish
- Easy to apply
- Long-lasting color
- Budget-friendly solution
Jacquard Textile Color, 8 oz, White
This professional-grade paint bonds to upholstery, clothing, or shoes, maintaining a soft feel. Its 8 oz jar covers small furniture pieces, applied with a brush for precision. The formula resists chipping or peeling, even after repeated washing. Mix with a textile medium for darker fabrics. Ideal for DIYers, it delivers vibrant, opaque results on sofas or car interiors, ensuring durability and a polished look without professional costs.
Key Features:
- 8 oz, acrylic-based
- Soft, washable finish
- Brush application
- Chip-resistant
- Works on multiple fabrics
Benefits:
- Professional, smooth finish
- Durable for daily use
- Easy to apply
- Vibrant on dark fabrics
Nicpro Black Fabric Paint, 33.8 oz
This large 33.8 oz bottle with a pump suits big projects like sofas or curtains. Its non-toxic, acrylic formula soaks into fabrics, staying soft and washable. Apply with a brush or sponge for even coverage. It resists fading and cracking, ideal for high-traffic furniture. Perfect for DIYers, it transforms large upholstery pieces with rich pigment, offering a cost-effective way to refresh home decor with lasting results.
Key Features:
- 33.8 oz, acrylic-based
- Pump dispenser
- Non-toxic, washable
- Brush or sponge application
- Fade-resistant
Benefits:
- Covers large surfaces
- Easy, mess-free application
- Soft, durable finish
- Budget-friendly for big projects
Chalky Crown Permanent Fabric Paint, 15 Colors, 60 ml
This 15-color set includes 60 ml bottles, 10 brushes, and a storage box, perfect for upholstery or clothing. The non-toxic, acrylic paint stays soft and resists fading. Apply with brushes for detailed designs or full coverage. It works on cotton, polyester, or denim, ideal for chairs or cushions. DIYers love its vibrant colors and child-safe formula, ensuring durable, washable finishes for creative furniture makeovers.
Key Features:
- 15 colors, 60 ml each
- Non-toxic, acrylic-based
- Includes 10 brushes
- Washable, flexible
- Storage box included
Benefits:
- Vibrant, versatile colors
- Safe for kids’ projects
- Easy to apply
- Durable, soft finish
Tulip ColorShot Upholstery Spray Paint, 8 oz, Onyx
This spray paint transforms natural or synthetic upholstery with a soft, washable finish. Its 8 oz can covers up to 12 sq. ft., ideal for chairs or car seats. The UV-resistant formula prevents fading, perfect for outdoor cushions. Apply in thin coats to avoid drips. DIYers appreciate its fast-drying, no-rub-off design, ensuring vibrant, long-lasting color without professional reupholstering costs.
Key Features:
- 8 oz, aerosol spray
- Covers 12 sq. ft.
- UV, weather-resistant
- Washable, soft finish
- No drips or splatters
Benefits:
- Quick, even application
- Durable for outdoor use
- Soft, vibrant finish
- Easy for beginners
Shuttle Art Fabric Paint, 18 Colors, 60 ml
This 18-color set with 60 ml bottles, brushes, and stencils suits upholstery, T-shirts, or jeans. The non-toxic, acrylic paint delivers a soft, permanent finish, resisting fading and washing. Apply with brushes for precise designs or full coverage. It works on cotton, polyester, or blends, ideal for sofas or cushions. Perfect for DIYers, it offers vibrant, flexible results for creative furniture projects without stiff textures.
Key Features:
- 18 colors, 60 ml each
- Non-toxic, acrylic-based
- Includes brushes, stencils
- Washable, permanent
- Soft, flexible finish
Benefits:
- Vibrant, creative options
- Easy to apply, blend
- Durable for daily use
- Child-safe formula
BLUEBIRD Fabric Paint, 3.4 oz, Lamp Black
This acrylic paint delivers a rich, permanent finish for upholstery, clothing, or shoes. Its 3.4 oz bottle suits small projects like cushions or car seats. Apply with a brush for even coverage. The non-toxic formula resists fading and cracking, maintaining a soft feel. Ideal for DIYers, it restores faded furniture with vibrant color, offering a budget-friendly alternative to reupholstering with long-lasting, washable results.
Key Features:
- 3.4 oz, acrylic-based
- Non-toxic, washable
- Brush application
- Fade, crack-resistant
- Soft finish
Benefits:
- Vibrant, lasting color
- Easy to apply
- Soft, comfortable texture
- Budget-friendly for small projects
Roizefar Fabric Paint, 21 Colors, 20 ml
This 21-color set with 20 ml bottles includes glow-in-the-dark and neon shades, perfect for upholstery or T-shirts. The non-toxic, acrylic paint stays soft and washable. Apply with brushes for detailed designs. It works on cotton, polyester, or canvas, ideal for chairs or curtains. DIYers love its vibrant, durable finish, ensuring creative furniture makeovers without cracking or fading, even after washing.
Key Features:
- 21 colors, 20 ml each
- Non-toxic, acrylic-based
- Glow, neon shades
- Washable, flexible
- Brush application
Benefits:
- Unique, vibrant colors
- Durable, soft finish
- Easy for creative designs
- Child-safe formula
Simply Spray Upholstery Fabric Paint, 8 oz, Black
This spray paint refreshes upholstery with a soft, permanent finish, covering up to 12 sq. ft. Its 8 oz can suits chairs or car interiors, applied in thin coats for even results. The non-toxic formula resists fading and rubbing off. Perfect for natural or synthetic fabrics, it ensures vibrant, washable color. DIYers appreciate its ease of use, delivering professional results without drips or costly reupholstering.
Key Features:
- 8 oz, aerosol spray
- Covers 12 sq. ft.
- Non-toxic, washable
- Soft, permanent finish
- No drips or splatters
Benefits:
- Quick, even application
- Durable, vibrant color
- Soft, comfortable texture
- Budget-friendly solution
Mont Marte Fabric Paint Set, 8 Colors, 20 ml
This 8-color set with 20 ml bottles suits upholstery, T-shirts, or canvas, delivering a soft, permanent finish. The non-toxic, acrylic paint resists fading and washing. Apply with brushes for detailed or full coverage. It works on cotton, polyester, or blends, ideal for cushions or chairs. DIYers love its vibrant colors and smooth application, ensuring durable, creative furniture makeovers without stiff textures.
Key Features:
- 8 colors, 20 ml each
- Non-toxic, acrylic-based
- Washable, permanent
- Brush application
- Soft, flexible finish
Benefits:
- Vibrant, lasting colors
- Easy to apply
- Durable for daily use
- Child-safe formula
Arteza Permanent Fabric Paint, 30 Colors, 60 ml
This 30-color set with 60 ml bottles includes brushes and stencils, perfect for upholstery or clothing. The non-toxic, acrylic paint stays soft and washable, resisting fading. Apply with brushes for precise designs or full coverage. It works on cotton, denim, or polyester, ideal for sofas or car seats. DIYers appreciate its vibrant, durable finish, ensuring creative, long-lasting furniture transformations without professional costs.
Key Features:
- 30 colors, 60 ml each
- Non-toxic, acrylic-based
- Includes brushes, stencils
- Washable, permanent
- Soft, flexible finish
Benefits:
- Wide color variety
- Easy, precise application
- Durable, soft texture
- Ideal for large projects
Delta Creative Fabric Paint, 2 oz, Black
This acrylic paint delivers a soft, permanent finish for upholstery, clothing, or shoes. Its 2 oz bottle suits small projects like cushions or car seats. Apply with a brush for even coverage. The non-toxic formula resists fading and cracking, maintaining flexibility. Ideal for DIYers, it refreshes faded furniture with vibrant color, offering a cost-effective, washable solution for creative makeovers without stiff textures.
Key Features:
- 2 oz, acrylic-based
- Non-toxic, washable
- Brush application
- Fade, crack-resistant
- Soft finish
Benefits:
- Vibrant, lasting color
- Easy to apply
- Soft, comfortable texture
- Budget-friendly for small fixes
Product Comparison Table
| Product Name | Type | Size | Colors | Application | Special Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabricoat Paint | Acrylic | 8.5 oz | Black | Brush/Sponge | Non-toxic, flexible |
| Jacquard Textile | Acrylic | 8 oz | White | Brush | Chip-resistant |
| Nicpro Paint | Acrylic | 33.8 oz | Black | Brush/Sponge | Pump dispenser |
| Chalky Crown | Acrylic | 60 ml | 15 colors | Brush | Child-safe, storage box |
| Tulip ColorShot | Spray | 8 oz | Onyx | Spray | UV-resistant, no drips |
| Shuttle Art | Acrylic | 60 ml | 18 colors | Brush | Includes stencils |
| BLUEBIRD Paint | Acrylic | 3.4 oz | Lamp Black | Brush | Fade-resistant |
| Roizefar Paint | Acrylic | 20 ml | 21 colors | Brush | Glow, neon shades |
| Simply Spray | Spray | 8 oz | Black | Spray | No drips, washable |
| Mont Marte | Acrylic | 20 ml | 8 colors | Brush | Child-safe |
| Arteza Paint | Acrylic | 60 ml | 30 colors | Brush | Includes stencils |
| Delta Creative | Acrylic | 2 oz | Black | Brush | Crack-resistant |
Buying Guide for Fabric Paint for Upholstery
Choosing the best fabric paint for upholstery ensures vibrant, lasting furniture makeovers. This guide covers key factors for success.
1. Paint Type
Select acrylic-based paints, like Fabricoat, for flexibility and softness. Mineral-based options, like Hemway, suit textured fabrics but need misting. Avoid regular craft paints, as they stiffen, per expert Katy Cano-Murillo. Check labels for upholstery compatibility to ensure durability.
2. Fabric Compatibility
Ensure the paint suits your fabric—cotton, polyester, or velvet. Tulip ColorShot works on natural and synthetic fibers, while Jacquard excels on darker fabrics with a textile medium. Test on a small area, as advised for Nicpro, to confirm adhesion and color.
3. Application Method
Choose brush-on paints, like Chalky Crown, for precision or sprays, like Simply Spray, for even coverage. Sprays suit large surfaces but need ventilation. Brushes, as with Arteza, allow detailed designs. Dampen fabrics slightly for better paint absorption, per Tracey Bellion’s advice.
4. Durability and Finish
Look for washable, fade-resistant paints, like Roizefar, for high-traffic furniture. Soft finishes, as in Mont Marte, ensure comfort. Apply thin coats and heat-set with an iron, as advised for Delta Creative, for permanent results. Use sealants for extra protection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Fabric Paint for Upholstery
Reviving furniture with fabric paint is simple with the right approach. Follow these steps for professional results.
Required Tools and Materials:
- Fabric paint (e.g., Fabricoat or Tulip ColorShot)
- Textile medium (optional, for Jacquard)
- Brushes, sponges, or spray cans
- Fabric conditioner
- Spray bottle with water
- Soft cloth
- Painter’s tape, drop cloths
- Iron or hairdryer
- Safety glasses, gloves
Step 1: Prepare the Workspace
Work in a well-ventilated area at 55-75°F. Cover floors with drop cloths. Tape off non-fabric areas, like sofa frames. Wear safety gear to avoid fumes.
Step 2: Clean the Fabric
Vacuum upholstery to remove dust. Wash with mild detergent, avoiding fabric softener, as advised for Tulip. Dry thoroughly. A clean surface ensures paint adhesion.
Step 3: Test the Paint
Apply paint to a hidden area, like under a cushion. Check for color and adhesion after drying. Adjust with textile medium for darker fabrics, per Jacquard’s advice.
Step 4: Dampen the Fabric
Lightly mist fabric with water and fabric conditioner, as suggested by Tracey Bellion. This helps paint soak in evenly. Avoid soaking to prevent drips.
Step 5: Apply the Paint
For brush-on paints, like Nicpro, use thin, even coats with a sponge or brush. For sprays, like Simply Spray, hold 10 inches away and use sweeping motions. Apply 2-3 coats, drying 1 hour between.
Step 6: Heat-Set the Paint
Iron the painted area on low heat for 3-5 minutes, as advised for Shuttle Art, or use a hairdryer. This ensures a permanent, washable finish. Place a cloth between iron and fabric.
Step 7: Cure and Inspect
Let the paint cure for 24-72 hours, per Fabricoat’s instructions. Inspect under good lighting for even coverage. Touch up with light coats if needed.
Step 8: Seal (Optional)
Apply a fabric sealant, like Dixie Belle’s Spray Wax, for extra durability. Spray lightly and let dry for 24 hours. This protects high-traffic furniture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping cleaning: Reduces adhesion.
- Using craft paint: Stiffens fabric.
- Over-applying paint: Causes cracking.
- Not heat-setting: Fades with washing.
- Painting wet fabric: Leads to uneven results.
Precautions:
- Test paint on a small area first.
- Work in low humidity for drying.
- Use gloves to avoid skin contact.
- Cover non-fabric areas to prevent overspray.
- Store paints in a cool, dry place.
FAQs About Fabric Paint for Upholstery
What Makes a Paint Ideal for Upholstery?
Acrylic or mineral-based paints, like Fabricoat, are ideal because they bond deeply with absorbent fabrics such as cotton, polyester, or velvet, ensuring a soft, flexible finish. These paints resist fading, cracking, and peeling, even after washing, making them perfect for high-traffic furniture like sofas or car seats. Unlike regular craft paints, which stiffen and crack, upholstery-specific paints maintain comfort, per Katy Cano-Murillo. Always check for upholstery compatibility and test on a hidden area to confirm adhesion and color payoff before committing to a full project.
Can I Use Fabric Paint on Dark Upholstery?
Yes, fabric paint can work on dark upholstery with the right approach. Use a textile medium with paints like Jacquard to enhance adhesion and opacity on dark fabrics like navy or black polyester. Apply multiple thin coats for vibrant coverage, allowing each to dry fully. Testing on a hidden area, as advised for Nicpro, ensures the color pops without patchiness. Dampening the fabric slightly before painting, per Tracey Bellion, helps absorption, delivering a smooth, professional finish without stiffness.
How Do I Ensure the Paint Doesn’t Stiffen?
To prevent stiffening, choose soft-finish paints like Tulip ColorShot or Mont Marte, designed for upholstery. Dampen the fabric lightly with water and fabric conditioner before painting, as suggested by Tracey Bellion, to help the paint soak in like a dye.
Apply thin, even coats and avoid over-application, which can cause cracking. Heat-set with an iron for 3-5 minutes, per Shuttle Art, to lock in flexibility. Testing on a small area first ensures a comfortable, durable texture.
Is Fabric Paint for Upholstery Washable?
Most upholstery paints, like Roizefar or Fabricoat, are permanent and washable after heat-setting with an iron or hairdryer for 3-5 minutes. Use mild detergent and avoid fabric softener to maintain the finish, as advised for Tulip.
Test washing on a small area first to confirm durability, especially for high-traffic furniture. Applying a sealant, like Dixie Belle’s Spray Wax, adds extra protection against wear. Proper preparation and heat-setting ensure the paint withstands cleaning without fading or peeling.
How Much Paint Do I Need for a Sofa?
An 8.5 oz bottle, like Fabricoat, covers a dining chair or car seat. For a standard sofa, estimate 2-3 bottles (17-25.5 oz), depending on fabric texture.
Porous fabrics like velvet absorb more paint, requiring additional coats, per product guidelines. Apply thin layers for even coverage, as advised for Nicpro.
Test on a small area to gauge absorption. For large projects, buy extra paint to avoid running out mid-application, ensuring a consistent, vibrant finish across the entire sofa.
Conclusion
The best fabric paint for upholstery transforms faded furniture into vibrant, durable pieces. I recommend Fabricoat Fabric Paint for its soft, flexible finish, perfect for sofas or car seats.
From Jacquard’s professional-grade formula to Tulip’s easy spray, our reviews, table, and guide help you choose.
Revive your upholstery with confidence—pick the paint that suits your project and enjoy a stunning, budget-friendly makeover that lasts!