Custom Denim Process + FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can painted denims be washed/get wet?

Yes! The acrylic paint I use is combined with a heat set fabrc medium that bonds the paint to the fabric. This ensures permanency and washability! The paint won't peel off, wash away or crack. The artwork on the jacket won't be harmed in the sun or rain.

Hand washing is the best method of cleaning the denim, as it ensures the permanence of the paint. Flip the clothing inside out and avoid purposely rubbing the painted areas; try and only wash the denim surrounding the artwork/text. Hand washing ensures you are in control of the areas that are getting cleaned and you can adjust the pressure being applied to the artwork.

How long do custom denims take?

The time spend on denims vary depending on the level of complexity the portrait or subject matter is. Anywhere around 80-100+ hours on high level realism jackets! The text and other painted details also take a lot of time and is done in layers - it takes a lot of patience!

What kind of paint do you use for painting on denim?

I use GOLDEN heavy body acrylic paint mixed with GOLDEN GAC 900 Heat-set fabric painting medium.

Can I send my own denim for painting?

Depending on the situation, sending your own denim is acceptable. However, I prefer ordering and painting on a brand new jacket for customs (normally Levi's denim).

Do you only paint celebrities on denim?

No! I can paint anyone on denim! I've painted pet portraits, speciality text & logos, and family portraits for clients.

Do you only paint on denim?

I started as a traditional watercolour artist and have since expanded into a variety of mediums. I now like to refer to myself as a multidisciplinary artist, as I enjoy working on both canvas and paper, as well as exploring new and unique surfaces! I love denims, but I have panted on guitars, keyboards, baseballs and many other unconventional surfaces!

How do I contact you for a denim/artwork/collaboration inquiry?

For the best and most efficient way to reach me, please email me directly at katscandale@gmail.com. You can also use any of the inquiry forms available on this website, which will go straight to my inbox.

While I do receive messages on Instagram and TikTok, those platforms can be challenging to manage due to the volume of messages, so I prefer to keep communication about commissions and collaborations via email.

Preparing Denim

I start all my jackets by ironing the denim then stretching it flat against a hard wood board (fitting accordingly to the denim). I attach the jacket by using very tiny nails to hold it into place.

Mixing Paints

I use heavy body acrylic paints mixed with a fabric medium. The fabric medium is heat set and protected from weather + water. I add the medium to my paints throughout the entire painting process.

White Base

A white base (a mixture of acrylic and fabric paint) acts as the "canvas" prior to sketching. Starting with a white base ensures that the colours going on the painting stay bright and pigmented, it allows your sketch to be visible and ensures the white base is absorbed into the fabric rather than the painting.

Filming

Every step of my process is meticulously filmed from start to finish, making it a crucial part of the custom jacket journey.

Sketching

My sketches vary for each denim, but my materials remain the same! I always use a waterproof Micron pen. If my sketch needs to go directly on the jacket I use a white gel pen to ensure my lines are visible.

Painting

The painting process is the most timely part of the process! Depending on the complexity of the image, the painting can take around 80-100+ hours! The text and lyrics on the sleeves and front also take a lot of time as they are done in layers. Each and every denim recieves a special amount of love to create the final product!