Shabby Rose Overalls: Hand Painted Denim with Vintage Charm
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
I've painted a lot of denim overalls over the years, but these painted denim overalls might be my favorite pair yet.
These Shabby Roses Overalls are layered with hand painted roses, soft vintage textures, and all the whimsical imperfect charm that makes me happiest as an artist.
And somehow.... they still feel completely wearable.
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The Inspiration Behind These Painted Denim Overalls
I wanted these to feel like something an artist would wear while wandering through a vintage flea market with roses in one hand and coffee in the other.
They started with a distressed pair of Amazon overalls, a new rose painting technique I recently taught inside my Curiously Creative monthly class, and a pile of vintage doilies, crocheted pieces, and handkerchiefs that I simply could not stop adding to!
The best part?
I didn't sew a single thing!
Supplies Used: Painted Denim Overalls
Vintage Textiles that I've collected over the years:
vintage handkerchiefs
crocheted pieces
doilies
old potholders
random collected treasures
You can also shop my favorite products and tools in my Amazon influencer list here.
How I Painted the Roses on Denim
To paint the actual roses was much easier than I imagined!
I used chalk mineral paint straight out of the jar without any fabric additives. Instead, I used a mister bottle to keep the paint moving easily over the fabric.
I did not strive for perfection... instead I moved the brush loosely allowing denim to show through the paint. I worked in layers and added highlights as I went along.
Don't over think the placement of the roses or leaves. Just relax and enjoy the creative process! Check out this blog, How to Paint Denim, for more detailed instruction.
Want to paint other flowers on denim?
Look no further! I have tutorials available on my website to walk you through the process.
How I Softened and Protected the Painted Denim
Once my roses were completely dry, I lightly sanded the painted areas using a sanding sponge.
This step makes a HUGE difference in keeping painted denim soft and wearable instead of stiff.
After sanding, I lightly misted the painted areas with Easy Peasy Spray Wax for lasting protection.
I usually allow my painted denim to cure for a full 30 days before washing in cool water on delicate cycle. They dry perfectly in a dryer without any issues and hold up beautifully wash after wash!
No Sewing Required: Adding Vintage Fabrics with Glue
I think a lot of people assume wearable art requires complicated sewing skills.
But honestly?
Fabric glue did most of the heavy lifting here!
I simply cut my vintage pieces (handkerchief, doilies and even crocheted potholders) to size based on where I chose to place them....and glued them in place.
I used ample glue and allowed them to dry overnight.
I even glued on the little vintage rhinestone earring on the front pocket.
The layered vintage pieces are what transformed these from simple painted overalls into something that feels collected, storied, and completely one-of-a-kind.
Why I Love These Painted Denim Overalls So Much
I can't tell you how many compliments I've received over these overalls!
I've literally had people throwing money at me to custom make a pair for them. In fact I'm working on two more pairs today!
The overalls themselves?
So extremely comfortable.
How could they not be when they are baggy in all the right places and perfectly distressed!
They are my go-to for fun outings with the family... and trendy hot spot shopping!
You Don’t Need Sewing Skills to Create Wearable Art
If you've ever wanted to create wearable art but thought you needed to know how to sew, let this be your nudge to try it anyway!
Start by choosing your overalls.
Paint the roses.
Glue the vintage pieces.
Make something wildly beautiful and uniquely YOU!
And when strangers stop you in public to ask where you bought them....even better!
FAQ: Painted Denim Overalls
Can you paint denim overalls with chalk paint?
Yes! Chalk mineral paint works beautifully on denim when applied lightly and softened with sanding afterward.
Do painted denim overalls get stiff?
They can initially, but lightly sanding with a sanding sponge the painted areas helps keep the fabric soft and wearable.
Do you need fabric medium for painted denim?
Not necessarily. Many artists, including myself, use chalk mineral paint alone with excellent results.
Can fabric glue replace sewing?
Absolutely. Fabric glue works wonderfully for attaching lightweight vintage fabrics and embellishments.
More Inspiration: Painted Denim
I have been painting on denim for years! ALL the denim that I can get my hands on. Here are more of my unique styles for your inspiration:
Men's Faux Leather Jacket - a personalized gift for my music artist son-in-law
Fall Painted Overalls - Embrace the fall weather with these custom overalls
Volleyball Sports Jacket - another jacket to support your favorite athlete
Original Painted Overalls - step-by-step guide to creating painted overalls
Denim Jacket Abstract Art - Abstract Floral Lady
Floral Painted Blue Jeans - wear them and wash them and wear them again!
Faux Wood Grain Denim Jacket - learn this technical for a men's denim design
Senior Denim Overalls - custom overalls for high school spirit
Click on any photo below for more up-close photos and all the design details
How can I help with YOUR Custom Denim project?
Paint Your Own Project
If you would like to paint your own denim/canvas project but would like more (video) instruction, I have a very detailed (and affordable) course, Denim Painting 101, that guides you through all the steps to create your own canvas/denim. This 1.5+ hour course gives you all the tricks and tips to make it look great and just as importantly make it LAST through the wash!
And I have these floral design tutorials for even more specialized instruction.
Be warned......painting denim is a little bit addicting!
You may never look at a denim jacket or pair of overalls the same!
Allow ME to paint it for YOU!
I offer a variety of painted canvas & denim projects that I custom create for you! You provide the vision, we collaborate on the final look, and I create a beautiful lasting piece just for you! See all my wearable artwork offerings HERE...or just shoot me an email with your custom design ideas.
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