Materials Needed:

– A pair of shoes (preferably in a light color for easy coverage)
– Plastic bags or newspaper
– Spray paint in your chosen color (Regular spray paint worked for me, but if you have leather you can buy spray paint specially for leather.)
– Clear coat spray for protection
– Duct tape (to protect the inside of your shoes))

Step 1: Prep Your Shoes

Choose a pair of inexpensive flats or any other shoes from a thrift store or your closet. Light-colored shoes work best as they allow the new paint color to shine without battling the original hue.

If your shoes are scuffed or a bit worn, don’t worry; spray paint covers a multitude of sins. Wipe them down well. The newer shoe had a glossy finish so I wiped them down with nail polish remover.

Step 2: Protect the Inside

How to spray paint your shoes is debatable, but one of the best ways is to protect the inside.

To avoid getting paint inside your shoes, fill them with plastic bags or newspaper. This step is crucial for keeping the interior clean and wearable. If you’re trying a different technique, as I did with a second pair, use duct tape to cover the inner parts that you don’t want painted.

It’s a quick step you’ll be glad you took because you don’t want spray paint rubbing off on the soles of your feet.

Step 3: Paint Your Shoes

Move to a well-ventilated area outside and place your shoes on a paper bag, flattened card board box  or more newspaper to catch any overspray.

Apply a light coat of spray paint to your shoes, making sure to keep the can moving to avoid drips and ensure even coverage. If you do get a drip no worries, blow on it to even it out. Allow the first coat to dry for about half an hour.

The red color turned out great, and one of the reason to custom spray paint your shoes is because you can choose any color under the rainbow.

Step 4: Apply Additional Coats

Once the first coat is dry, apply a second and then a third coat, allowing each to dry thoroughly in between. These additional layers will ensure full coverage and a vibrant finish.

There are many durable spray paints for shoes out there. Krylon and Rust-Oleum are two of my favorites.

Step 5: Seal the Deal

After the final paint coat has dried, apply a clear coat spray to your shoes. This protective layer will help shield your newly painted shoes from scuffing and wear, extending the life of your DIY project

The Final Reveal

Once everything is dry, your transformed shoes are ready to wear!

This easy upcycle project not only gives you a unique pair of shoes but also offers a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe without contributing to fast fashion. I love how these color spruce up any outfit!

Tips for Success:

– Choose spray paint suitable for the material of your shoes for the best adherence and durability. I just picked mine up from Lowes.
– Use your patience between coats to avoid smudging and ensure the paint fully dries.
– Have some fun and experiment with colors and finishes (matte, glossy, metallic) to create custom footwear that reflects your personal style.

Didn’t they turn out great?

Transforming your shoes with spray paint is a fun, affordable way to customize your wardrobe and give new life to shoes that might otherwise go unworn. With a little creativity and some simple materials, you can create something truly unique and stylish.

Happy painting!