Glossy shoes with a sprinkling of glitter are indeed very glamorous, adding more than just a touch of sparkle to any outfit. Whether you want silver shoes like Dorothy's in The Wizard of Oz, or sparkly pumps for a special occasion, why not just make your own, so you don't have to go through the hassle of going to the store and sorting between different shoes to find the perfect one? Making these glitter shoes is very easy and inexpensive and can be done at home -- besides that, you can choose any color of glitter or whatever style of shoe you like. This one personal creation will definitely be very good.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Collecting Materials
Step 1. Choose shoes
The first step of this project is to find the right pair of shoes. Since this is a craft project, so you probably don't want to spend a fortune on a branded pair of shoes, you'll end up covering them with glitter too.
- The best shoes for this project are old comfortable shoes. If you don't have one, look for the right size shoes at a thrift store.
- Any color doesn't matter; once the shoe is covered in glitter, you won't be able to see the true color.
- Plain high-heeled pumps or ballet flats are best suited for this project, as they are easy to cover with glitter. Lace-up shoes will be more difficult to make, and the glitter will fall off faster.
Step 2. Choose suitable glitter
The type of glitter you choose will determine the final look. It's a good idea to choose very fine glitter, rather than one with a larger grain.
- Fine glitter will produce a smoother and neater surface. While the rough glitter will make the result messy and uneven.
- Any color glitter is ok. You can polish your shoes with one solid color, or cover some areas of the shoe with tape and sprinkle a different color on each area, or even mix different glitters for a rainbow effect; everything is up to you.
- If you're making glitter shoes to match certain outfits, make sure you take them with you when you shop for these crafts, to make sure you pick the exact same color.
Step 3. Choose glue
Apart from shoes and glitter, the type of glue you will use is the most important aspect of making a good glitter shoe. A good glue will dry smoothly and evenly, and will allow the glitter to adhere firmly to your shoes.
- Mod Podge is the best glue for this project, as it is both a protective glue and a finish. Choose a matte or gloss finish. Either way will look good.
- If you can't get your hands on a Mod Podge, the all-purpose Elmer's Glue is a great alternative, as well as Martha Stewart's glitter glue. If you don't have all three, just use a good fabric glue.
Step 4. Prepare additional materials
In addition to the essentials above, you'll need some additional tools to make your shoes sparkle with glitter.
- Take an old newspaper and spread it over the work area. This is important, unless you don't mind messy glitter all over the place.
- Take a glass or plastic bowl for the glitter and glue, and a plastic spoon or wooden stick to mix the two together.
- Take two soft-bristled paint brushes; one to apply the glitter glue and another to apply the final coat of glue on top.
- Look for paper or painter's tape you can use to protect the soles from getting covered in glitter.
Part 2 of 2: Installing Glitter
Step 1. Clean the shoes
Before starting, make sure the shoes are really clean. You definitely don't want any dirt trapped under the glitter. This cleaning is especially important if you are using old or used shoes. Clean thoroughly with a shoe brush or rag and water, and allow to dry completely before you begin.
Step 2. Cover the sole of the shoe with paper tape
You might be tempted to skip this step to save time, but you should do it.
- No matter how careful you are, glitter glue will likely get on the soles, and by the time you put on the shoes, traces of glitter will be scattered everywhere you go.
- Cover the sole of the shoe by applying paper or painter's tape, trimming off the rest at the end. If you're wearing high heels, don't forget to tape a small section under the high heel as well.
- Fill the inside of the shoe with newspaper or a plastic bag to prevent the glitter glue from getting there.
Step 3. Mix glitter and glue
Let's start the fun! Pour Mod Podge (or whatever glue you use) into a plastic bowl or cup, then add the glitter and mix well. The mixture should consist of 2 parts glue and 1 part glitter. The consistency should be quite thick and like a paste.
Make sure the consistency is just right; If there's too much glue, you'll need to rub the shoe over and over again until the shoe is covered in enough glitter. If the glitter is too much, you will get a clumpy finish
Step 4. Apply the first layer of glitter
Dip one of the soft-bristled paintbrushes in the glue and glitter mixture, and start applying the first coat to your shoes. Don't be too thick; it's better to apply several layers rather than one thick layer.
- Don't panic if the glue looks white when you apply it. The glue will turn clear once it dries.
- After both shoes have been buffed with an even coat of glitter glue, allow them to dry in a place out of reach of curious animals or children.
- You should also cover the glue and glitter mixture with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Step 5. Apply a second and third layer of glitter
Once the first coat of glitter has dried, you can apply a second, then third (wait for each coat to dry first).
- You can also sprinkle a little extra glitter on top of the shoe while the glue is still wet. That way your shoes will have an extra shine and a bit of a 3D effect.
- Once the third coat of glitter glue is complete, your shoe will be evenly covered in glitter and the original color will no longer be visible.
- But if there are patches, you can add as many extra layers as needed to cover them.
Step 6. Apply a protective layer
Once the last coat has dried, apply a final coat of plain glue to protect the glitter and prevent it from falling off.
- Pour the new Mod Podge into a bowl or plastic cup and use a second paint brush to apply it lightly and evenly to the surface of the shoe.
- Alternatively, you can spray the shoes with acrylic or polyurethane spray. Both of these materials can also provide an effective protective layer for glitter.
Step 7. Let it dry
After applying a final coat of glue or spray, place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to allow them to dry. Leave it overnight. Make sure the shoes are in a place where they won't be disturbed, away from tiny hands or animal claws.
Step 8. Provide additional details
If you like, add extra details to the shoes, such as embellishments, ribbons, or heart-shaped shoe clips. Use hot glue to attach it. Keep in mind, without any extras, these shoes already look pretty glamorous, so you don't have to overdo it
Step 9. Remove the paper tape and put on the shoes
Once these shiny shoes are finished, all you have to do is remove the paper tape from the sole and put it on to dance on the dance floor. Don't forget to put on your high heels, okay?
