How to Design Your Own Slippers

Customize basic slippers with appliquéd initials or create an original beaded pattern.

Create decorative, comfy, plush slippers for your boudoir or to wear around the house by sketching several concepts. Choose specific fabric textures for the slipper shell, such as fleece, yarn-dye flannel plaid or rich duchess satin. Select complementary trims, such as faux fur, beading, sequins or embroidery. As another alternative, recycle leftover fabric from pajama-making projects and design matching slippers to coordinate with your nightwear. If sewing is not your forte, re-design and customize your existing pair by embellishing with decorative trims.

Things You'll Need

• Sketch paper
• F or H pencils
• Slipper sketch copy
• Side view copy

Instructions

1. Draw the slipper outline on sketch paper with F or H pencils for fine details lines. Do not add stitching lines or decorative inserts. For example, if you are making covered toe or flip-flop slippers, trace the outline of the foot bed by placing an existing pair on your sketch paper. This gives you an actual view if you choose to construct the slippers at a later date or revamp an existing pair with updated trim finishes.

2. Draw a side view of the slipper featuring the front cover and heel height. Although slippers appear flat, the back end, referred to as the heel cut, has a slight ½- to 1-inch heel.

3. Make several copies of the slipper sketch from Steps 1 and 2.

4. Draw different versions of the slipper within the sketch copy. For example, if you have a covered foot, add decorative seams to mix complementary plaid patterns. Draw a second open-toe slipper version and mix the plaid patterns on the foot bed and heel.

5. Add trims to the sketch. For example, if you are customizing slippers with initials, draw chenille textured appliquéd letters on the foot cover. You can also add flat jewel beads, rhinestones and studs in a specific pattern. Design elegant slippers by adding rose buds or delicate faux fur and feathers.

6. Continue to repeat Steps 4 and 5 to design different versions and use as a guide to construct the slippers as a future project.

References

• Crafty Nest: Old Flip Flops + Bath Towel= Slippers
• Whip Up: Make Your Own House Slippers