Making Barefoot Sandals

Barefoot sandals are a popular fashion accessory for the beach or other outdoor events where shoes are optional. One of the most common uses of barefoot sandals is for beach weddings. When the bride and bridesmaids opt out of wearing shoes because of the sand, these unique pieces can dress up their feet. Barefoot sandals are made of an anklet attached to a chain leading down to a toe ring, usually worn on the second toe. These are easy to make, and this DIY project allows you to have complete control over the size, color and style. You can make your barefoot sandals to match wedding colors, your beach accessories or in any color that strikes your fancy.

Things You'll Need

• Jewelry thread or wire
• Beads
• Clasp

Instructions

1. Wrap your thread or wire around your toe. Choose whichever toe you will be wearing your jewelry on. This is usually the second toe, but you may use the third if this is more comfortable for you. Hold both sides of the thread together at the top of the toe and bring them up to the ankle. For the strap attaching toe to ankle you will thread the beads onto both ends of the thread together.

2. Hold the thread together again where it meets your ankle. From here the two ends of the thread will split again to wrap around your ankle, making the anklet portion of the sandal. Allow for a little extra, as you can always trim off the excess later.

3. Thread enough beads onto your piece to wrap around your toe.

4. Once you have a loop for your toe, hold both ends of the thread together and thread beads onto both strands together. Continue until the beads reach your ankle. If you want to make a more intricate design you may bead the strands separately in the middle of this strap. The important part is that at least one bead joins them together at the top of the toe and base of the ankle. The strap should lay flat across the top of your foot, making a straight line from the toe up to the front and center of your ankle. For some design inspiration, explore the various barefoot sandals in the Resources section of this article.

5. Separate both ends of the thread again when you reach your ankle, and continue adding beads until you have the desired length to wrap around your ankle.

6. Loosely attach a clasp to one end of the anklet and a matching hoop to the other end.

7. Try on the barefoot sandal and walk a few steps in it. If the jewelry is too loose, remove some beads from your thread to shorten it and try the jewelry on again. Adjust accordingly until you have a good fit, then firmly knot the clasp to the end of the thread and trim off any excess to finish.

8. Repeat for the second matching barefoot sandal.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with a variety of beads and designs. Add dangling charms to the anklet or strap leading up from the toe.

• Make sure that your thread is fastened tightly to the clasp to ensure that your barefoot sandal does not snap or break. Make the barefoot sandal well-fitting so that it doesn't slip off your toe or ankle.

Resources

• Barefoot Sandals
• Barefoot Jewelry