I bought these old boots probably 15 or so years ago… from a thrift store. I have definitely gotten my money’s worth out of them, but even though they are looking a bit bedraggled, I am not ready to let them go. I know it is silly to get attached to inanimate objects, but not only have they have hiked mountain trails, tromped through Kansas snow, and hidden my mismatched socks, they have also gotten more and more comfortable with age.
So, I decided to grant them a make over. Onto my work table they went!
And out came my Angelus leather paints.
A bit of fun and new shoelaces later….
I combined free hand painting with some stencil use. My circus stencil covers the inner side of the boot, and you can also spot the polka dots from my atc stencil set, and my dots in a row.
Of course, being a good Kansas girl, I added some wheat to the back, just under the boot strap.
Do you have some old leather in your closet that could use some sprucing up too?
For those of you in the Jerseyville, Illinois area (about an hour north of St. Louis) I will be teaching a leather painting workhop on Sunday, April 10, 2 to 5pm. I will supply some small leather items for you to paint, but if you want to get a start on your own boots, shoes, belts, or purses, you are welcome to bring them! Call Darla at (618) 954-8135 to register.
If you prefer to get yours already painted, check out my etsy shop!
Momma Scheer
Can I use this leather paint on faux patent leather?? I love these!!
victoryrd
Yes, I have used this paint with pretty good results even on vinyl, but the more the first layer of paint can soak in, the better the durability.
Laura (PA Pict)
What a great makeover! I understand the attachment to old and very worn shoes. I have a pair of walking sandals I have owned since 2004 and I still put those on my feet before any other sandals I own.
ephemeral gecko
these are fabulous! They look good condition for their age, so never mind the mileage, they’re got life left in them! I love what you’ve done here. I just bought a pair of second hand shoes with just the same intention. The world needs more ppl with colourful feet!!
victoryrd
Have fun with your project!
kthrow
Those are stinkin’ ADORABLE! Gives a whole new meaning to reboot!
victoryrd
Love it! Reboot it is!