Shoe Makeover :: Studs & Stripes

BEFORE

AFTER

So if a leather shoe becomes dirty, you have three options 1) clean it or get it cleaned 2) have it re-dyed or 3) make it more awesome.  I went with option numero tres.  I was so pleased with the outcome, I had to share it with you guys :)

The Process:

[1] take original shoe, and sketch up an idea

Behind the process and MORE pictures after the break!!

[2] Paint a layer of grey to the area the studs will be applied.  Because of the curvature, I decided I would incorporate a little space in between the studs to add depth, contrast, and a sense of flow through the placement of the studs.

[3] Time to add the studs!

This was VERY time consuming and a bit of a grueling process!!

Half way there..

[4] Mix the paint to the perfect shade of light beige.

And PAINT!

wellah!

after the first layer of paint.

[5] After letting the first coat of paint dry overnight, I mixed up my shade of grey.  

I wanted the beige and the grey to mesh in tone, therefore I mixed in some yellow and red to create a warm grey.

After a few more hours of painting, here they are!!

I also added two layers of a clear protecting varnish to seal in the paint and make them less susceptible to getting dirty.

I'm super in love with them!! I just couldn't wait to wear them out :)

Worn BEFORE

 

Then AFTER (its a bad angle, but you get the idea)

SOOOO, what do you think?  Would you rock em?

If you want your shoes CUSTOMIZED contact me at NNK872@gmail.com for ideas and pricing :)