How to Spray Paint Converse

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Things You'll Need

  • Converse shoes

  • Spray paint

  • Masking tape

  • Old newspaper

  • Plastic grocery bags

You can make your shoes into a work of art.

Converse shoes are some of the most recognizable shoes in the world. Lots of people wear these shoes. You see these shoes being worn by rock stars and the kid in your high school class. Some popular Converse styles include the Chuck Taylor All Star, Jack Purcell and John Varvatos models. As great as Converse shoes are, they can always be customized with a little paint. Spray painting your shoes will make your Converse shoes like no other pair. It is fun and easy to spray paint your shoes. You can use an old or new pair and with some paint they will be a work of art by the time you are finished. This project will allow you to wear your creativity on your shoes.

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Step 1

Put old newspaper onto the ground. Since spray paint is permanent you want to be sure to keep it off the floor. If at all possible you should spray paint the shoes outdoors. That way you will not have to worry about mistakes where the paint gets on the carpet. This is also a good option if paint fumes bother you. Choose the paint colors you will be using on your shoes. Have them set out on the newspaper so you will not have to run and get them later.

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Step 2

Tape your shoes. You will want to put masking tape on any area you do not want to paint. It would be a good idea to tape the soles and bottom sides unless you want them painted. Stuff plastic bags inside your shoes so that paint will not get inside the shoes. This will allow you to freely paint without worry. Also, be sure to remove the laces, unless you want them painted as well. You can make stripes by taping off areas of the shoe and then painting. After the first color of paint has dried you can then put tape on the painted area and add another color. You can use stencils instead of tape, if preferred. Just be sure to tape off the area around the stencil so that no paint will splatter in an unwanted area.

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Step 3

Spray paint the shoes. This is the fun part so have a good time with it! Be creative, there are no rules when spray painting your shoes. You can use as many colors as you like, but remember that spraying too many colors onto each other may result in a muddy or black paint job. Spray paint for a minute or two and then step back and examine your shoes. When spray painting you should hold the can about 10 inches from the shoe. Simply spray the paint in a circular motion to get the most even coverage. You can always add more paint, so be conservative with your first application.

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Step 4

Add a second layer of paint if necessary. It is best to let the first layer dry before adding a second. The back of the spray paint should give exact drying times. If you can still see the shoes' original color underneath the spray paint or want to touch up an area, do it after the previous paint coat has dried.

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Step 5

Let the shoes dry. Again, check to see how long it will take based on the spray paint you are using. Drying times vary according to manufacturers. To be on the safe side, you should allow 24 hours before wearing your newly-painted shoes unless otherwise stated on the paint can. Letting your shoes dry outside is a good way to avoid paint fumes in the house. Once they have dried remove the tape and plastic bags from the shoes.

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