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From canvas to couture: Painting a wedding dress with testpots

30 Jan 2025

It’s surprising what paint can be used for – much more than just your walls! When artist Nicole was approached by her friend Michelle to transform her reception wedding dress into a unique piece of wearable art, the task was both thrilling and daunting.  

The bride had an unconventional idea: to use her reception dress as a canvas for hand-painted flowers. Nicole, with her keen artistic eye and steady hand, turned to an unlikely yet perfect medium – Resenetestpots. 

“The bride wanted something fun and memorable for her reception,” Nicole says. “I was extremely nervous about the project, but we decided to go ahead, and it worked brilliantly.” 

The painting process was a mix of artistry and trust. Using a palette of Resenetestpot colours – Resene Island Spice, Resene Goldmine metallic, Resene Corvette, Resene Japonica and Resene Cutty Sark – Nicole brought Michelle’s vision to life. The floral design added vibrant splashes of personality to the dressand the paints proved to be an ideal choice for the unconventional project. 


Bride Michelle at her wedding reception with her painted floral dress, painted by Nicole in Resene Island Spice, Resene Goldmine metallic, Resene Corvette, Resene Japonica and Resene Cutty Sark. 

“The testpot paint was the perfect consistency to work with on fabric,” Nicole says. “It adhered beautifully without compromising the softness and flow of the dress. Seeing the design come together was so rewarding.” 

The final creation was a showstopper. Michelle was thrilled with the result, and her reception photos radiated joy and individuality, capturing the vibrant spirit of her special day. 

For Nicole, the experience was more than a project – it was an artistic milestone. “It’s amazing to think that something as simple as a Resenetestpot could help create such a memorable moment for someone I care about.” 

Nicole’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and the versatility of Resene paints. From walls to wardrobes, these colours have no boundaries when it comes to inspiring art. 

See more of Nicole’s work here. 

imagesRochelle, Pure Images Photography 

Published: 30 Jan 2025