How to Make Faux Bead Sandals

Dress up your summer sandals with beads.

Sandals and and flip-flops are the footwear of choice for hot, muggy summer days, but can become a bit boring and plain. Casual sandals can be changed to fancy, interesting pieces with a little creativity. Make your own faux beaded sandals to turn an old, simple pair of sandals into a new, trendy pair to match any outfit. Add sparkle, color or whimsy with this easy project.

Things You'll Need

• Beads
• Needle and thread
• Glue gun

Instructions

1. Choose a comfortable pair of leather, rubber, fabric or plastic sandals to dress up with beads. Purchase medium to large-sized beads that are up to 1/2 inch long and wide in a color, shape and pattern of your choice. Larger beads are easier to attach to the sandals. Thread the needle with thread that is three to four times longer than strap you are attaching the beads to.

2. Using the needle and thread, tie the thread at the end of one strap on your sandals or flip-flops, where you would like the beading to start. Place a bead onto the thread and loop the needle around the strap so that the bead sits securely on top of your sandals strap. Repeat with another bead, so that the beads are lined up next to each other.

3. Continue placing beads onto your sandal straps until you have achieved the desired pattern. Loop the thread around the end of the sandal strap and tie a knot to securely fasten all the beads. Use the glue gun to secure the knots and the beads to the sandals.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use the glue gun alone to attach the beads to your sandals, though using both a needle and thread and glue helps attach the beads more securely. If you are using fabric sandals you can sew directly onto the fabric. Try a variety of patterns and colors of beads for a trendy look. With practice, you can also make faux bead sandals with other designs, rather than just placing beads in a line.

• Ensure that the beads are attached to your sandals tightly, to avoid having them come loose or fall off. Keep beads away from small children and pets as they can be a choking hazard. Place the beads on top of your sandals only, avoid attaching them anywhere where they will rub against your skin and cause discomfort.

References

• AHC Arts & Crafts: Shoe Crafts For Kids