Recently while cleaning out the basement (a truly frightening event) I came across an old pair of classic black Converse High-Tops. If I remember correctly, this pair of shoes was acquired at the height of my grunge-rebellious phase of eighth grade- and they were looking a little sad. Half way to the Goodwill bag a thought hit me- 'I wonder if I can turn these sad tennies into hip high tops?' and so, by combining my two favorite craft-cessories- bleach AND metal studs- I gave these babies a new life!
Here are some great studded high tops that have been popping up in stores all over recently:
Supplies:
-An old pair of high top sneakers (any color really, but black works best for this style)
-Bleach (and protective gloves for dealing with bleach)
-Optional toothbrush/ paintbrush you don't mind destroying
-Metal studs (try searching etsy for cheap supplies in bulk)
Step One:
Make sure your sneakers are clean. Place them in a bin in a well ventilated area or outside. Pour the bleach into a smaller container (such as the bleach container lid).
Using the bleach, 'splatter paint' your shoes. I poured some bleach over top, used a toothbrush to spray little dots, and used my hands to make abstract lines. Get creative- and think artistically- too much bleach will turn your shoes all one color, and too little will go unnoticed. Channel your inner Jackson Pollock! Warning: the bleach will probably destroy your toothbrush/ paintbrush so don't use one you're particularly attached to.
Step Two:
If you're using black sneakers then right about now they're looking pretty red. Startling, right? No need for more bleach- just let them sit until they've obtained the perfect level of faded wonderfulness. I let mine sit for about 30 minutes and achieved a nice salmon pink. As soon as you're happy with the color- chuck em in the washer with a little bit of detergent and wash them on the gentlest cycle.
Step Three:
Let your shoes dry.. this will probably take overnight unless you want to go at them with a hair dryer. Then add studs! I used brass square studs that have four little prongs each. Once you press the prongs into the fabric you then curl the prongs under on the other side. Take your time lining up and placing your studs. I used pliers to make sure my studs were really secure (I don't want those prongs coming loose and poking my ankles).
And that's it! Go be the grunge princess you've always dreamed of!
Having some fun at the Smithsonian Museum of American History and rockin' my upgraded Sneaks!
