Paint + bedsheets?

[Kiddo Seanchain]

I've recently been asked to do some murals of an Italian countryside for a feast on old bedsheets. I'm trying to figure out what paints and stuff to use right now.

The first step is the lineart, which I will be doing by myself. I'm thinking of using chalk for this as it's visible and should go on a bedsheet easily.

The second step is paint-by-numbers with volunteers using... something. I'm wavering between acrylic and tempra. Both can be mixed with water so they'll go on easier but tempra is water-soluble and cheaper. However, I'm more familiar with acrylic and can mix it fairly well.

Anyone done this before? What materials did you use? Or any art-smart people in general willing to put in their two cents? Be much appreciated!

This project is going to consume my SCA life for a bit since I'm out of fighting on doctor's orders. I'm very excited about it though.  

[Llelwyn]

There is paint that is specifically fabric paint that I think would probably be your best bet. I'd be careful with your paints (I do watercolors, acrylics and oils, not tempra so I'm not positive on this one) aren't going to run if they get damp.  

[Dragostae]

It's not period, but I like using acrylic (which is fairly easy to use, dries fast, mixes well, holds colour fantastically). When working with kiddos, though, I have to think how well it'll come out of fabric, and then I shift to tempera, but still break out the smocks. Tempera doesn't hold as well to fabric, so hopefully you're working with (semi)responsible adults.

It might be something to wear those ol' grungy mundanes for.

Constantia
(the former art major)  

[TheSteven]

For cheapness, ease and range of color... go for acrylic. But I reccomend grabbing a spray fixative (you should be able to buy it at a craft store for about $5ish.) to semi-weatherproof it afterwards. Acrylic will run if it gets too wet, which may prove annoying.