How to Make Vintage Cloth Baby Shoes

Cloth baby shoes can be unique.

Although cloth-sole shoes are not as durable outside as their rubber-sole counterparts, the flexibility cloth provides can be beneficial for a baby's developing feet when learning to walk indoors. Depending on the type of fabric used and the embellishments included, hand made cloth baby shoes can have the feel of vintage baby shoes that were inspired by years past. With basic sewing knowledge and an attention to detail, vintage cloth baby shoes can be created in just a few steps.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• 1/4 inch wide elastic (two 4 inch pieces)
• Scissors
• Baby shoe pattern
• Needle
• Thread
• Sewing machine

Instructions

1. Find a pattern. Visit a local fabric or craft store to find a sewing pattern for baby shoes or baby slippers. When buying a pattern, select the size that corresponds closest to the age of the baby who will be wearing the shoes. If the baby is on the high end of the age bracket, choose the next size up for the longest wear. Free baby shoe patterns may also be found on the Internet.

2. Choose the fabric. Search for vintage-inspired fabrics with old fashioned patterns or prints at fabric stores. Felt is an affordable option that can give an old-fashioned vibe. Visit a local thrift store and search for old clothing made of wool or linen, which may be re-purposed for use in baby shoes to provide an authentic vintage feel.

3. Cut the fabric pieces. Pin the pattern pieces to the fabric and cut. Be sure to cut four upper pieces, two heel pieces and two sole pieces. If using coordinating fabrics for the inside of the shoes, be sure two of the upper pieces are cut from this fabric.

4. Create the elastic casing. With each heel piece, fold over (along the straight edge) approximately 1/4 inch and sew to create a casing that will house the elastic. Pull the elastic through each heel piece and sew each end closed to hold the elastic securely in place.

5. Pin pieces together. Lay one heel piece on top of one upper shoe piece (right sides together) and use straight pins to pin together along the top edge. The elastic edge should be facing towards the center. Place the second upper piece on top of the heel piece (right side down) and pin along the top.

6. Sew pieces together. With a 1/4 inch seam, sew along the straight edge of the pinned pieces. Turn pieces right side out.

7. Attach upper and heel piece to the sole fabric piece. With right sides together, carefully pin pieces together making sure they are aligned properly. Use a zigzag stitch to sew around the entire shoe to secure the fabric. Turn the shoe right side out.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an embroidery pattern on the top of the upper piece of the shoe for a unique embellishment.

• Attach a bow created from delicate ribbon to the top of the baby shoe to portray a vintage shoelace.

• Sew buttons on the shoes for the look of an old fashioned closure.

References

• Old School Acres: Baby Shoes, Booties and Gifts
• Poo Pockets: Free Pattern