If the Shoes Fit - Wear 'Em!
By Jillian Bietz

Recycling isn't only for bottles and cans! Before you donate (or toss!) an old pair of scuffed up or stained shoes (that still fit!) give them a money-saving makeover! With few materials, you can achieve one of kind kicks without emptying your wallet.

Make sure the shoes are canvas (sneakers like Vans or Converse are usually canvas) or made of synthetic, plastic material such as "pleather." Any type of shoes work. Sneakers, flats, and Mary Jane's are the easiest, but you can jazz up heels too. If you can't locate old shoes or you are making the shoes as a gift, purchase an inexpensive pair from the drugstore or a retailer like Payless.

Firstly, clean the shoes as best as you can to get rid of dust and dirt. Wipe plastic shoes with a wet paper towel, and scrub of any scuffmarks. If they shoes are canvas, toss them in the washing machine. Make sure the shoes are dry before you start crafting. Try one of these techniques or combine them to create an individual pair that's your very own.

Collaged: If you aren't planning on covering the entire shoe, you may want to cover them with paint. Once they are dry, start creating. Tear pretty papers, magazine and newspaper cutouts and paste on the shoes. If you are using stickers, consider making a pattern. Be creative; you can use images from vintage books, uniquely cut scraps of fabric or wrapping paper, even candy wrappers! When done, coat the shoes with sealant glue such as Mod Podge. Sprinkle with glitter if desired.

3-D adorned:
With fabric paint or spray paint, douse shoes until you can no longer see the original color. Once dry, it's time to get creative! Use a glue gun to add your items. Some suggestions: ribbon, plastic gems, bows, appliqu?s, board game tiles, charms, studs, rhinestones lace, beads, buttons, sequins, silk flowers. To spice up your shoes, almost anything goes. Be demure with only a single item, or go all out and cover the shoes with all the contents of your junk drawer.

Hand-Drawn:

If you are more of an artist and less of a crafter, this method is a very personal way to decorate your shoes. Firstly, paint the shoes. Once dry, use a pencil to draw or write whatever you'd like. Creatively calligraphy a quote you like, make a unique pattern, or use stencils and stamps. When you are satisfied with how your shoes look, outline your pencil marks and color with an assortment of colored fabric pens/paint or sharpies. If you want to add a distinctive detail, use decorative ribbons instead of shoelaces.

No matter how demure or eclectic your choose to decorate your shoes, the outcome will surely add personality to your outfit.