Now that’s summer’s here, it’s time to break out the canvas sneakers. I spiced mine up with a little fan art makeover. My friend liked them so much that she asked me to make her a pair. If you like them, too, here’s exactly how I made mine.
Here’s what you need:
Plain Canvas Shoes
I got mine from Target, but any shoes that you like will work. The more simple the design, the easier it is to decorate them.
Fabric Paint
This comes in a squeeze bottle and is available anywhere craft supplies can be found. There is a huge variety of colors to match whatever you want to paint, including glittery and glow-in-the-dark options.
Tailor’s Chalk
For drawing the outlines, you can find it at stores that sell sewing supplies. It’s made for marking fabric for alterations and can be rubbed off afterward.
Stuffing
This holds the shoes in shape while you paint them. I used plastic bags and paper, but whatever works for you is good.
An Image
Let your imagination run wild here, pick your favorite. I used Cosima’s laptop pattern from Orphan Black.
First, stuff your shoes firmly. The less that the canvas moves while you’re painting it, the easier it is to paint. It really helps keep the painting neat.
Using the tailor’s chalk draw the image onto your shoes. I freehanded mine, but if you’re more comfortable tracing the image, do so. This is where I made a small mistake the first time that I made these shoes. I forgot that with the image that I was using, the left and right shoes should mirror each other. It was easily correctable at this point, so not a big deal.
When you have the outline the way that you like it, it’s time for the paint. I found it best to do one color at a time, to minimize smudging.
The paint sets in about 20-30 minutes, so it’s a good idea to wait about this long between colors. I worked on mine over several consecutive evenings, doing one color during each session. I spent perhaps 10 minutes each evening working on them.
The last step is to add in the little details and correct any problem areas.
When you’re done give them a good 24 hours, to let the paint set up. All that’s left is to step out in your new FANcy footwear.
Have you upcycled any of your clothing to show off your favorite fandoms? Let us know!
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