DIY Vintage-inspired Saddle Shoes

DIY

DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle ShoesSaddle shoes were very popular in the 1940s and 1950s, and are a must-have for anyone that loves mid-century fashion. Back in 2012, I made a pair of two-tone oxford brogues using bronze fabric paint. Now that I am slowly progressing towards a more vintage-inspired wardrobe, I find that I need a pair of black and white saddle shoes to supplement my wardrobe. And being me, I'd much rather make a pair myself than to buy a pair online.So here's a simple tutorial for everyone out there who wants to make a pair too!Materials:DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle ShoesA pair of white plimsolls - I got mine from TargetA pot of black fabric paintA paint brush with a flat or sharp tip for precision during paintingBlack fabric markerSticky tape - I used wash tape I have in my stashSteps:DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes1. Remove the shoe laces. Place sticky tape somewhere off the centre of the shoes. Also, tape the tongue of the shoe down so it doesn't get in the way while you paint.DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes2. Use the black fabric marker to mark a semi-circle on the back of the shoes. I followed the stitching pattern that was already on the plimsolls.DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes3. Start painting away! Don't be too worried about getting paint on the eyelets because you can wipe the paint off before it dries.DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes4. Wipe off any paint you have on the eyelets. You can also clean the insides using cotton buds.DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes5. Allow the paint to dry for a day, then set the paint with an iron. Avoid being too close to the rubber soles because you don't want to melt the rubber!DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle Shoes6. Put the laces back on and smile, because you now own a pair of saddle shoes!DIY Vintage Inspired Saddle ShoesDIY Vintage Inspired Saddle ShoesDIY Vintage Inspired Saddle ShoesA couple of weekends ago, I wore my "new" saddle shoes for the very first time. I'm so excited about all the different ways I can incorporate it into my mid-century outfits in the future! Let me know if you make a pair for yourself too. I'd love to see your projects! x G 

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Vintage 1940's Style Pink Floral Dress (Butterick 5209)