How to Make Designer Sneakers With Outdoor Decoupage

Nearly everyone has completed a decoupage project as a gift or simply for home décor. Gluing attractive bits of fabric or paper to the outside of objects like boxes, wooden frames or vases create a wonderful keepsake. With outdoor decoupage, you can create projects that are waterproof and durable. This cute craft idea includes decoupage applied to canvas sneakers for one-of-a-kind footwear.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pair of new canvas sneakers
• Outdoor Decoupage
• Fabric or Tissue Scraps
• Paint Brush
• Glue
• Embellishments
• Beads
• Permanent Marker

1. Select fabric or tissue paper in the color and design of your choice. Tissue paper looks great on white sneakers. Overlapped sections to create new colors makes it a fun project for those who like a colorful design. Fabric scraps create a more upbeat look but may take a bit more work.

2. Brush outdoor decoupage on the outside of the sneakers. Tear or cut tissue paper or fabric into small sections. Irregular shapes work well, but you could design a specific pattern of shapes, if you prefer.

3. Apply the paper or fabric scraps to the outside of the sneaker and press firmly in place. Smooth away any wrinkles with your hands to create a smooth surface. Begin at the toe and work your way to the sides and back of the sneaker.

4. Brush a generous layer of decoupage over the fabric or paper sections to completely seal all edges and create a protective coat. Allow to dry completely before wearing the sneakers.

5. Consider using permanent marker to add decorative designs to the finished project. Small Xs to simulate stitches along the joining lines of fabric give the impression of old fashioned patchwork. Traditional stitching is black, but you can use any color you like. Contrasting colors create visual appeal and make the design of the fabric stand out.

6. Add embellishments such as buttons, beads and other miniature trinkets to create the look you prefer. String several pony beads in the center of a shoestring and situate them so they rest across the bridge of the shoe. Lace the shoe and add beads to the ends of the laces if you would like. It is best to place a daub of glue beneath the beads to keep them stable.

7. Present these one-of-a-kind sneakers to someone you know who enjoys the unusual. This project allows for tailoring the design to the individual tastes of the wearer. Fabric color and design should reflect the likes of the recipient. Consider animal prints for the animal lover, rainforest designs for the environmentalist or music scores for the musically talented. Quilters will love the whimsical look of patchwork sneakers.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a theme for the design and coordinate embellishments that support the theme.

[meridians]

on 11/5/2009 What a cute idea!

[passionista]

on 9/4/2009 I remember seeing some painted sneakers in a magazine - very artistic. They were fabulous! This makes me want to try my hand at some decoupage.