DIY Jeweled Flipflops
Jeweled flip-flops are a fashionable, playful way to dress up casual wear. Jeweled flip-flops are popular with brides who want to wear something fancy but comfortable. They also are popular for bridesmaids. You can buy flip-flops already decorated with rhinestone jewels or you can enjoy making your own -- and save some money -- with supplies found at craft stores.
Things You'll Need
- Flip-flops
- Sandpaper or steel wool
- Cloth
- Rubbing alcohol
- Industrial strength glue or jewelry glue
- Applicator stick
- Rhinestones
Instructions
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1
Lightly sand the straps of the flip-flops with sandpaper or use steel wool to roughen them up and make it easier for the glue to adhere. Wipe the straps clean with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.
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2
Place dots of glue onto the flip-flop strap in the pattern you want the rhinestones to be placed. Do just a few dots of glue at a time. Make the dots of glue just large enough so that when you press the rhinestone into them, the glue will also come around the edges of the rhinestone. This requires some practice.
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3
Pick up a rhinestone by lightly touching it with the tip of the applicator, then press the rhinestone into the dot of glue. Repeat with the next rhinestone crystal and continue until the straps are covered.
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4
Let glue fully dry, usually 24 to 72 hours. For optimal adhesion, add an extra day or two.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Rubber flip-flops work best, and you may not have to roughen the straps with sandpaper. Vinyl or polyurethane flip-flops will require sanding.
Do not use cheap flip-flops. They sometimes have an "oiliness" to the plastic that makes it difficult, if not impossible, to glue your jewels on to.
Placing wadded up newspaper or a rag under the straps may make them easier to work on and help to catch stray glue drips.
Work in a well-ventilated area because the fumes from many glues, especially industrial strength glues, can be harmful to your health.
Carefully follow the instructions for the glue you are using.
References
- Photo Credit orange flipflops thongs image by Paul Hill from Fotolia.com
