You guys. Last week, I

You guys. 


 Last week, I totally spray painted my shoes.  


 I had these old heels in my closet, and they were looking sort of boring.  500 coats of Saddle Bag and two spools of ribbon later, and here we are!  Juries still out on the ribbon choices, along with the tights.  Sorry the photos are a bit dark.  The sun goes down around 3pm here.  (Just kidding)  


Here's a before and after shot along with a list of Things That Worked and Things I Would Have Done Differently.   

My suggestions

Obviously, pick a shoe you're not emotionally attached to (that's hard, right?)  If you choose a shoe that's just...a shoe- then you've got nothing to lose if it turns out ugly. 


Take your time.  My paint got a little thick in some places because I kept covering and covering and covering.  When in doubt, wait.  Always wait. 


Use primer if you are going from a dark color to a much lighter one.  I realize this should have been common sense.  However, I read online that the primer shows through if the paint chips so I opted out.  While I haven't worn my shoes out much, I now think a coat or two of primer would have been a real time saver. 


Have fun with the color.  I've been wanting a nude-ish colored pair of heels for a long time, now, but I think next, I'm going to try to choose a more "fun" color.  Plum or dark teal, maybe?  For $4.99 a can, you can't go wrong, right?  


Know your material.  I chose leather, and I was wary at first, but I think it all worked out in the end.  Read the labels on your paint and make sure it will take to your shoe's surface. 


Choose indoor/outdoor spray paint.  You know, just for good measure.  ( I used Krylon)  

Be brave, and spray away. I was terrified, but I lived.

Honestly, you can't tell from the photos, but the paint is still a little thin in some places.  I'm not 100% satisfied yet, but you can't do too much with paint in 12 degree weather (literally)!  Brrrr.....

I'm sure another coat of paint and a warm afternoon will do wonders!

     What have you "made over" lately?  Are you sneaking glances at anything in particular?  An old lamp or a piece of furniture, perhaps?  I say go for it!  Personally, I will spray paint anything that's not nailed down (dogs, beware)!

Shoot first, ask questions later, right?

Love and a well-ventilated area,
H.

P.S. Linking up to these gals below
Craftomaniac
Fingerprints on the Fridge
Shabby Nest Blog
Simply Sweet Home
My Backyard Eden