Decoupage is a simple way to update and redecorate an old pair of shoes. You only need a little imagination and a lot of time to complete this craft, but when done right, the results can be amazing.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Part One: Preparing the Ingredients
Step 1. Choose the paper
Thin to medium paper is better than heavy paper, but even so, the only limit is your imagination. Gather a few sheets of paper with whatever pattern or design you like.
- Some good resources include gift bags, old magazines, old books, and crossword puzzles. If you can't find anything you like in printed form, you can also find pictures online and print them on plain paper.
- When choosing images and patterns, pay attention to the size of the print. You should make sure that the printed image is small enough to fit on the surface of your shoe.
- Also think about the color. Arrange your pictures in stacks and make sure the colors match.
Step 2. Cut the paper into small pieces
The easiest size to work with is a postage stamp-approximately 2.5 cm on all sides.
- You can also cut the paper into long strips or cut it into individual shapes from the pattern.
- Smaller cutouts are best because there is less risk of folding when you attach the paper to the arch of the shoe.
- Cutting the paper with scissors will create a smooth, straight edge. Another option is to tear the paper into small pieces. This will create ragged edges and give the shoe a different look.
Step 3. Plan the design
While it's not required, it's a good idea to spread out the pieces of your image and plan the layout or design for your shoes.
You may need to make changes to the layout as you paste the strips of paper, but planning the design ahead of time will make the pasting process less daunting
Step 4. Choose the shoes
Find a pair of leather or faux leather shoes. Shoes with plain colors and smooth surfaces with few details are the best choice.
- This project is a great way to give a new pair of old shoes new life, but if you don't have any old shoes, you can find them at thrift stores.
- By choosing shoes that are plain in color, you can ensure that the printed paper will be the center of attention and not the pattern behind it.
- Shoes with holes, lace, laces, and other details are bad choices because you'll need to attach decoupage around these elements. Doing so is not impossible, but it will make your work even more complicated.
Step 5. Clean your shoes
Wipe your shoes with a damp cloth or wet tissue to remove dirt and debris on the surface.
Your shoes don't need to be completely clean, you just need to get rid of any dirt or debris. Stains and soil that is too sticky can be left alone
Step 6. Scrub all smooth surfaces
If you choose patent leather shoes, it's a good idea to lightly rub the surface with sandpaper before proceeding.
- Nail files can also be used to scratch shoes.
- Scratching a smooth, shiny surface can give the liquid glue a surface to stick to when you apply it, making it stickier in the process.
- Keep in mind that this buffing process isn't necessary if the shoe already has a rough or matte surface.
Step 7. Prepare a mixture of glue and water
In a glass or plastic bowl, mix equal amounts of PVA glue and water. Mix with an ice stick or disposable wooden chopsticks until thoroughly combined.
- Remember that PVA glue is just plain white glue.
- Another option is to purchase a Mod Podge or other similar decoupage glue. Make sure that whatever you choose will create a permanent adhesive and a clear, smooth varnish.
Part 2 of 3: Part Two: Decoupage Shoes
Step 1. Coat the back of the shoe with liquid glue
Apply the liquid glue that you have prepared on a small part of the back of the shoe using a sponge brush or other small paint brush.
- Apply just a little glue to the shoe to attach a strip or two of paper. The glue should be fresh and wet when you glue the paper, and if you apply it to too many places at once, the glue may dry before you apply it.
- You can start working from any part of the shoe, but usually it's easier if you start at the back of the shoe along the inside edge.
Step 2. Glue the paper quickly
Place the piece of paper you want on top of the glue on the shoe.
- Use your fingers to gently apply pressure to the paper so that it sticks firmly.
- If the paper doesn't stick well, you may have to coat the back of the piece with additional glue before starting again.
Step 3. Smooth the paper
While the glue is still wet, use your fingers to smooth out any visible wrinkles or creases in the pasted piece.
If the glue has started to dry or if you can no longer smooth out the wrinkles with your fingers, buff the pieces with a damp sponge to help smooth them out
Step 4. Apply the top layer of glue
Before moving on to the next piece of paper, apply one more coat of glue to the piece of paper you just glued.
- Don't be afraid to put too much. The paper must be completely wet with the glue if you want the pieces of paper to really stick together.
- This layer of glue can also be spread over the next section you're going to cover.
Step 5. Work around the shoe
Work around the shoe in the same way, gluing the paper piece by piece until the entire surface is covered.
- Each strip of paper should overlap slightly on the previous cut. Stacking paper strips reduces the number of gaps that occur and provides a stronger finish.
- If you make a mistake, you only have a few seconds to remove the piece of paper before the glue dries. After this period of time has elapsed, it is better to cover the piece with a new piece than to tear it.
- You can also decoupage the heel of your shoe, if desired, but don't cover the sole or the inside of the shoe. These parts will peel off too quickly and your work will be wasted.
- After you finish decorating one shoe, finish the other shoe in the same way.
Step 6. Let the shoes dry
Store the shoes for a few hours until the surface is mostly dry.
The surface may still feel sticky, but it should be dry enough to prevent the pieces of paper from sliding
Step 7. Apply one more coat of glue
Use a foam brush to apply a final coat of glue to the entire surface of both shoes.
- This final coat will glue all the paper together and also add a light protective layer.
- When finished, allow the shoes to dry for 24 hours or until they are completely dry before working further. The shoes must be completely dry before you can do anything to them.
Part 3 of 3: Part Three: Add the Finishing Touches
Step 1. Apply several layers of waterproofing
Once the shoes have dried, you will need to apply a waterproof layer so they can be worn in any weather without any problems.
- Mod Podge and some other glues can create a waterproof coating, so you can use several of these if you wish.
- Clear varnish and seal varnish are two options to consider.
- Whichever option you choose, allow the coat to dry for a few hours between layers and wait for the last coat to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 2. Smooth out the inner edges
While it's not required, you may need to cover up any messy inner edges. You won't be able to see these inner edges when you're wearing the shoes but you can see them when you're not wearing them.
- Start by cutting off any unmounted paper.
- The simplest option is to coat the uneven edges with paint that is the same color as the shoe's inner lining.
- Another option is to tape around the inside of the shoe. This will cover up any messy inner edges and also provide an aesthetically pleasing accent.
Step 3. Add the desired embellishments
You can keep the shoes as they are at this stage, but you can also add other decorations to the surface of the shoes to create a different look.
Some of the different options include sequins, glitter, buttons, and ribbons
Step 4. Let it dry completely
Make sure all glue, varnish, and paint are dry before you touch or put on the shoes.
As a general rule, it's a good idea to wait 12 to 24 hours after finishing it before putting it on
Step 5. Put on your shoes
Your newly decoupaged shoes are finished and ready to show off.
