Try some of these cute, easy ideas to decorate everything from t-shirts, tank tops, tablecloths, and tote bags, to bandanas and beach towels for the Fourth of July.
*Place cardboard between layers of each shirt, or beneath single layer items.
You can either pick up pre-cut rubber, foam, or spongy stamps at your favorite craft shop or you can order patriotic stamps online. Rubber Stamp Factory offers a God Bless America and flag stamp or a waving flag without words. One Stop Square offers a variety of patriotic stamps including Lady Liberty, flags, heart shaped flag designs, and fireworks.
You can also cut out your own stamps from different sponges and craft foam. Stars and stripes are easy to make. Try shooting stars to add interest.
You can use various combinations of red, white, and blue to create your own unique styles. Red and blue paint on white fabric is standard, but you can make it look unique by adding your own special touches. You can also select a red shirt and add white stars or other designs, or go white on blue. Try printing random red stars on white. When they dry, stamp over them with blue, overlapping just a bit, for a shadowed effect, or trim with sparkly gold or silver paint pens.
You can find washable fabric paint at most craft stores, but even inexpensive craft paint will work on fabric. Craft paint also works great on paper, plastic, or vinyl tablecloths for your picnic or barbeque.
Dab the stamps into some paint, and blot the excess before stamping directly on your chosen surface. Try alternating between light and heavy coats of paint for interesting effects.
For other cute variations, pick up a pack of flag lapel pins or star pins and pin them all over your items, alternating with stamped on flags or stars.