The Best Paint for Felt Hat: Reviews & Guide
Ivan McCloud | Jul 5, 2023
Are you looking for a way to spruce up your old felt hat and give it a fresh, new look? One of the easiest and most effective ways to do this is by painting it. However, not all paints are suitable for use on felt hats.
Choosing the wrong one could lead to disappointing results or even damage to your hat. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the best paint for felt hat. In this article, we’ll review some of the top-rated paints particularly designed for use on felt. So, keep reading to make an informed decision and achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish on your felt hat.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Tulip Dimensional Fabric Paint (See Price)
- Best for DIY: ARTEZA Permanent Fabric Paint (See Price)
- Best Professional: Jacquard Paint Colorfast (See Price)
- Best for 3D Paint: Crafts 4 All Paint Set (See Price)
- Best Puffy Paint: Mr. Pen 3D Paint Set (See Price)
- Best Metallic: Shuttle Art Metallic Colors Paint (See Price)
Reviews of 6 Best Paints for Felt Hats
Felt hats can become worn out and faded over time. To maintain the appearance of your felt hat, you can use a high-quality paint manufactured specifically for this purpose. In this section, we will review some of the best paints for felt hats currently available on the market.
1. Tulip Dimensional Fabric Paint
Our topmost pick for the best paint for felt hat belongs to the brand Tulip which let you shine with all your creativity. The Tulip Fabric Paint is definitely the best one among other fabric paint products.
You can not only use the paint on your felt hat but also almost anything for the purpose of décor. The paint brings a beautiful creation while boosting the creator’s confidence. However, the paint comes in a solid form in a bottle.
Its slick black color provides the felt hat with a beautiful glossy finish. Moreover, after applying, the paint dries fast. It takes almost 4 hours to cure. However, the most magnificent feature of the paint is it does not crack after drying.
Additionally, the paint is fade-resistant as well. Thus, once you paint your precious felt hat with the Tulip paint, it will likely serve you for years. Again, the felt hat colored with this paint is absolutely washable. Washing won’t fade its color at all.
Pros:
- Comes in a great texture and formula.
- Resistant to crack and fade.
- Offers excellent coverage.
Cons:
- Its tip clogs easily.
Our Verdict: Needless to say, the Tulip Dimensional Fabric paint is easy to apply as it transfers easily while offering great coverage. You surely do not want to miss out on such a quality product that ensures value for money as well.
2. ARTEZA Permanent Fabric Paint
Our very second pick is the best spray paint from the popular brand ARTEZA. It is a permanent fabric paint that comes in 24 different shades which is crazy. So, you can paint your favorite felt hat with any color you want.
You can even give your hat a semi-transparent color to keep its fabric soft. However, the paint set includes some other unique colors as well including 4 neon and 2 metallic shades along with 18 classic colors.
Moreover, it is a permanent clothing paint. That means you can spray the paint over almost any fabric type including cotton, leather, linen, or even denim for lifetime. Since it comes with a fast-drying formula, you can be very creative with just one pack of ARTEZA fabric paint.
Additionally, this selection is also crack and peel-resistant. The company claims the paint will not fade away even after abusive use of the hat or after numerous washes. Moreover, with a metallic finish, the paint offers partial coverage.
Nonetheless, being created or designed by some real artists, using this fabric paint can never go wrong.
Pros:
- The paint transfers and sets excellently.
- The application is smooth and resistant to peel or crack.
- Best deal for the money.
Cons:
- Ironing is required for a permanent finish.
Our Verdict: The most convincing facts about the ARTEZA permanent paint are its versatility and a wider range of shades to choose from. It is a must-add tool for any of your DIY projects as well.
3. Jacquard Paint – Permanent and Colorfast
The third selection for the best felt hat paint talks about professionalism and it belongs to the brand Jacquard. The textile color comes in a bottle with a volume of 70 milliliters. It is a professional quality paint that you can apply not only on fabric surfaces but also on paper and wood surfaces as well.
However, people choose the paint for its amazing finish. After applying, the paint makes the fabric way softer. Even after several washes, its softness and color brightness still remain the same. The color also does not chip, peel, fade, or crack even if you wear the hat repeatedly.
Moreover, unlike other paints for felt hats, you can use this paint for outdoor purposes as well like painting upholstery. You can also apply the paint over a wider range of fabric types including extruded or stretchy fabrics.
Nonetheless, speaking of its coverage, the paint can offer semi-transparent to intense coverage. The application is also simple. For increasing transparency, you can simply add water up to 25% to the medium.
However, to not affect the consistency, you can also use a Colorless extender to get your desired transparency.
Pros:
- Comes in a professional quality formula.
- Can be applied on several surfaces.
- Can form any other color by intermixing some colors.
Cons:
- Cannot cover a large surface area.
Our Verdict: Overall, the Jacquard Textile Color is the best for professional use. The multiple techniques and unique properties surely make the paint stand out.
4. Crafts 4 All Paint Set – Assorted 3D Paints
Next on the list comes the best paint for felt fabric from the famous brand Crafts 4 All. This set of paint is amazing the moment you discover them. Its one-pack has a total of 24 different shades to offer. Each painting has an attractive hue and surely, has a brilliant spectrum.
Moreover, the set also includes 3 brushes for easy application on almost anything. You can apply the paint on clothes, canvas, bags, decors, and even on sneakers. Also, you can paint upholstery and other surfaces with different textures like wood, glass, ceramics, paper, and so on.
However, each bottle contains non-toxic paint. After applying it to your felt hat, the paint delivers an awesome matte finish. As the paint composition is not toxic at all, anyone from kids to adults can use it.
Nonetheless, till now the most amazing feature of this fabric paint set is its ability for painting both 2D and 3D. You can also doodle or write anything with these paints. You can paint your felt fabric with it like traditional acrylics. Again, the squeeze bottles are easy to use for painting and art purposes.
Pros:
- Offers 24 unique and permanent shades.
- Non-toxic and has a nice matte finish.
- Safe for kids and the bottles are easy-squeeze.
Cons:
- You may find variations in the consistency of the component.
Our Verdict: Overall, coming in a perfect-sized bottle, each color is vibrant and offers great value for the price as well.
5. Mr. Pen 3D Paint Set – Puffy Paint for Fabric
With 3D paint ability, the Mr. Pen – 3D Fabric paint pack is also surely the one you do not want to miss out on. Moreover, it includes a number of 12 must-have shades to reflect your creativity to the fullest on your felt fabric.
Moreover, you can use this puffy paint for doodling, drawing, or for any smaller DIY projects. Again, the 3D fabric paint has premium quality materials to provide you with long-lasting results. The paint is absolutely washable when dries.
Also, when dries the vinyl paint reflects a shiny 3D effect. The glossy finish makes the felt hat look incredible. However, the packaging of the paint is done in a bottle. Hence, squeezing the bottle is easy for easier application.
Additionally, the bottles have a precise tip that does not allow any waste of paint. Again, the bottles are transparent or clear so that you can detect the shade with only a glance of your eyes. When dries, you can wear the fabric as many times as you want. And you can wash it as well since the paint will not peel off.
Pros:
- Puffy and vinyl paint for multiple uses.
- The containers come with precise tips.
- Washable and does not peel or crack.
Cons:
- The components may create air bubbles.
Our Verdict: With a 30-day return guarantee, you can never go wrong with Mr. Pen 3D paint. It also ensures the usability of all age ranges.
6. Shuttle Art Metallic Colors Permanent Soft Fabric Paint
Coming to the last pick, the metallic fabric paint from Shuttle Art manages to hold the position for its great performance. Metallic paint on felt fabric, surely, looks extraordinarily good. Shuttle Art provides 18 unique and permanent shades for use on soft fabric.
Like our other suggested textile paint, this one is also non-toxic and acid-free. Hence, kids are welcome to use the paint to explore their creativity. Giving a metallic finish, the paint is absolutely a multi-purpose one. Use it on whatever fabric you like including jeans, bags, shoes, and T-shirts.
Convincingly, the paint comes with 3 brushes and stencils with 18 patterns stickers. So, you can start painting your felt hat with metallic paint right away after buying it. Moreover, the tools ensure easy transfer of the paint. Additionally, the package also includes a palette.
Also, the flip caps of the paint bottles make sure it is easy to open and close. Hence, using the paint is also highly convenient.
Pros:
- Premium paint remains vivid for a longer period.
- Comes in bright metallic colors for a great finish.
- Washer safe and permanent paint and also, multi-purpose.
Cons:
- Some may find it more glittery than metallic.
Our Verdict: Guaranteeing satisfactory use, the Shuttle Art metallic paint is a certified product. So, buying its great color section will not be a loss.
How to Choose the Best Paint for Felt Hat?
When it comes to painting a felt hat, it’s important to choose the right paint that will look good and last for a long time. Here are some factors to consider when choosing paint for a felt hat.
Type of Paint: The type of paint you choose will depend on the type of felt hat you have. If your felt hat is made of wool, acrylic paint will be the best choice as it will adhere well to the fabric and will not crack or peel. On the other hand, if your felt hat is made of synthetic material, it is better to use fabric paint as it is designed to bond with synthetic fibers.
Color: When choosing a color, consider the style and occasion the hat will be used for. Neutral colors like black, brown, and gray are versatile and can be used for a wide range of occasions. Bright and bold colors like red and pink are great for making a statement.
Texture: If you want a smooth and even finish, choose paint with a creamy texture. If you prefer a more textured look, consider using paint with a more granular texture.
Durability: A high-quality paint that is designed for use on fabric will last longer and will not crack or peel over time. Look for paints that are labeled as “fade-resistant” and “water-resistant” for added durability.
Ease of Application: Choose a paint that is easy to apply. Some paints require multiple coats, while others can be applied in a single coat. Consider the drying time of the paint as well, as some paints may take longer to dry than others.
Health and Safety: Consider the health and safety implications of the paint you choose. Look for paints that are non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets. Also, make sure to use the paint in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Choosing the right paint for a felt hat requires careful consideration of factors. By taking the time to choose the right paint, you can ensure that your felt hat looks great.
Care and Maintenance Tips to Follow while Painting Felt Hats
Painting felt hats is one way to add a unique touch to your headwear. However, it’s essential to follow the proper care and maintenance tips to ensure the paint adheres to the felt and doesn’t damage it. Here are some tips to consider.
1. Prepare your felt hat: Before painting, clean your hat with a soft-bristled brush or lint roller to remove any dust or debris. If your hat is stained, use a mild detergent and water solution to spot clean the affected area.
2. Choose the right type of paint: Felt is a porous material, which means it can absorb paint differently than other fabrics. It’s essential to choose a paint specifically designed for felt or one that is fabric-friendly. Fabric paints or acrylic paints are recommended, as they provide better adhesion and flexibility on felt.
3. Test your paint: Before painting the entire hat, test the paint on a small, inconspicuous area of the hat. This will help to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage to the felt. Let the paint dry completely before assessing the results.
4. Apply the paint in thin layers: Apply the paint in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This technique helps prevent the paint from soaking into the felt too deeply, which could cause the hat to lose its texture.
5. Use a soft brush to paint: Using a soft brush or sponge, apply the paint gently to the felt hat. Do not press too hard or rub the paint onto the felt. Doing so could cause the felt to pill.
6. Allow the paint to dry: Allow the paint to dry completely before wearing or storing the hat. This helps ensure the paint stick to the felt and doesn’t transfer onto clothing or other items.
7. Store your hat correctly: Store your felt hat in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration. Avoid stacking other items on top of the hat, which could cause it to lose its shape.
How Long Does the Paint Last on Felt Hat?
In general, properly applied paint can last for several months or even up to a year. But make sure the hat is not exposed to harsh conditions such as extreme heat or moisture. However, if the hat is exposed to frequent wear and tear, the paint may start to fade or crack sooner.
To extend the life of the paint on a felt hat, it’s important to store the hat in a cool and dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing your hat to direct sunlight for long periods of time, and avoid getting it wet or exposing it to high humidity. Additionally, gently cleaning the hat with soft cloth can help remove any dirt or dust that may cause the paint to wear off faster.
Note that some types of paint may be more durable than others. So, it’s important to choose a high-quality paint specifically designed for use on felt fabric.
Can I Paint a Felt Hat that Has Already Been Painted?
Yes, you can paint a felt hat that has already been painted. But the final outcome will depend on the type of paint used on the hat originally and how well it has adhered to the felt material.
If the original paint is water-based, it may be easier to paint over, while oil-based paint may require a primer. Use acrylic paint suitable for felt material. Apply it in thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.
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Can I Paint a Felt Hat with Regular Paint?
While it may be tempting to paint a felt hat with regular paint, it’s not a good idea. Felt is a delicate material made from compressed fibers that can easily be damaged by water or wet materials. Regular paint contains solvents that can cause the felt to shrink, become hard, or lose its shape.
If you’re looking to add some color or designs to your felt hat, consider using fabric or acrylic paints mixed with a fabric medium. Fabric markers are designed specifically for use on fabrics and are less likely to damage the material. Acrylic paints mixed with a fabric medium help to bind the paint to the fabric and prevent cracking or peeling.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best paint for felt hats depends on the type of hat you have, the type of paint you prefer, and the purpose of your painting. When it comes to felt hats, it’s important to choose a paint that won’t damage the fibers or cause discoloration.
Acrylic paints, fabric paints, and spray paints are popular choices, but it’s always recommended to test a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entire hat.
Additionally, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use proper ventilation when working with paint. With the right paint and techniques, you can give your felt hat a unique and personalized touch while preserving its quality and durability.