In this article, we’re going to teach you how to paint shoes in a way that will make them look amazing. You don’t need any special skills or equipment, just some patience, creativity, and a steady hand. Let’s get started!

The Best Way to Paint Shoes
Painting shoes is a great way to add your personal touch to an otherwise plain accessory. Whether you want to add a splash of color to an old pair of sneakers or dress up a new pair of heels, painting shoes is a fun and easy project that anyone can do. With just a few supplies and a little bit of creativity, you can transform any pair of shoes into a work of art.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Shoes
- Acrylic paint and acrylic finisher
- Paintbrushes
- Paper plates or paint palette
- Water cup
- Nail polish remover
- Newspaper or drop cloth (optional)
- Painter’s tape
- Clear sealant (optional)
Begin by laying out your newspaper or drop cloth to protect your work surface from paint. Then, remove the laces from your shoes and set them aside. Next, decide what colors you want to use for your design. Once you have an idea in mind, mix your paints on the paper plate or paint palette.
Now it’s time to start painting! Use the brushes to apply the paint to the shoes in whatever design you like. Be sure to let the paint dry completely between coats. Depending on how thickly you applied the paint, you may need to apply 2-3 coats for full coverage.
Once the paint is completely dry, you have the option of sealing it with a clear sealant. This will help protect the paint and extend its lifespan. However, it is not necessary if you don’t want to use it.
Now that your custom shoes are painted, simply re-lace them and wear them with pride! You’ll be sure to turn heads everywhere you go.
What Kind Of Paint To Use On Shoes

The best kind of paint to use for painting shoes is acrylic paint. It is durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Plus, it is easy to work with and comes in a variety of colors.
If you want your shoes to have a glossy finish, look for acrylic paint that is labeled “high-gloss.” Otherwise, regular matte acrylic paint will work just fine. I like to follow up with an acrylic sealer spray.
Although I prefer to use acrylic paints, you can also experiment with spray paint, leather paint, fabric paint, or paint pens depending on the type of shoe you’re working with (for example to paint sneakers vs. paint leather shoes or vinyl shoes). You may want to practice on some old shoes of the same type first.
Prepping The Shoes
Before you start painting, you’ll need to remove the laces from your shoes. Set them aside in a safe place so you don’t lose them. Next, decide what colors you want to use for your design. Once you have an idea in mind, mix your paints on the paper plate or paint palette.
Now would be a good time to begin painting! Employing the brushes, apply the paint to the shoes in a pattern of your choosing, according to your whims. You must allow adequate time for the paint to completely dry in between coats. You may need to apply two or three coats of paint to achieve full coverage. This will depend on how thickly you applied the paint.
After the paint has been allowed to air-dry completely, you have the option of protecting it with a transparent sealant. This will assist in protecting the paint and extending the duration of its useful life. On the other hand, if you do not wish to make use of it, it is not required.
Now that your shoes are painted, simply re-lace them and wear them with pride! You’ll be sure to turn heads everywhere you go.
Tips To Paint Your Shoes Successfully
- Use a small brush for the smaller details and a larger brush for the bigger areas.
- If you want your shoes to have a glossy finish, look for high-gloss acrylic paint.
- Let the paint on the shoes dry completely between coats to avoid smudging your design. You can speed up the process with a hair dryer but just make sure that it’s fully dry before adding the next coat.
- Seal the paint with a clear sealant to extend its lifespan.
Wear your new shoes with pride!
How To Avoid Smudges And Other Common Painting Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes people make when painting shoes is not letting the paint dry completely between coats. This can cause smudges and ruin your design. To avoid this, be sure to let the paint dry for at least 30 minutes before adding another coat.
Another common mistake is not using a sealant. Sealants help protect the paint and keep it from chipping or fading over time. If you want your shoes to last, be sure to use a clear sealant after you’re done painting.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! Shoes are a great canvas for expressing your creativity. So have fun with it and let your imagination run wild.
How To Choose The Right Color Scheme
When it comes to painting shoes, there are no rules. You can choose any colors you want! If you’re having trouble deciding on a color scheme, here are a few tips to help you out:
Consider the clothing you usually wear. Do you tend to dress in neutrals like black, white, and gray? Or do you prefer brighter colors? Choose a color scheme that will compliment your usual style.
Think about the occasion you’ll be wearing the shoes. Are they for everyday wear? A party? A special event? Choose colors that are appropriate for the occasion.
Keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to painting shoes. A simple design in two or three colors can look just as good as a more complex one.
With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create a beautiful and unique pair of painted shoes!
Kinds Of Shoes You Can Paint
Just about any type of shoe can be painted, for example:
- Painting canvas shoes
- Painting leather shoes
- Painting sneakers
- Painting boots
- Painting Heels
- Painting Flats
No matter what type of shoe you have, painting them is a great way to add your personal touch. So get creative and have fun!
Final Thoughts
Now paint! Paint the sneakers whatever you want. Apply thin coats and let paint dry between layers. If you applied the paint in very thin layers, you should require at least 2-3 applications for good coverage.
You can seal dry paint with a transparent sealer. This protects and prolongs paint. Using it is optional. Also, never forget these tips:
- Paint your shoes to add a personal touch to your style!
- Be sure to let the paint dry completely between coats.
- Seal the paint with a clear sealant to extend its lifespan.
- Choose a color scheme that compliments your usual style.
With these tips, you’re sure to create a beautiful and unique pair of painted shoes!