Extend the Life of Your Favorite Shoes With These DIY Patches
We all have a favorite pair of shoes that we just can’t bring ourselves to throw away, despite the holes in our toes or heels. Close those holes and give your favorite shoes some more wear with these affordable DIY patches.
These patches should only be used on the top of the shoe. Even if you’re using a sturdy final fabric like leather, suede or canvas, it’s mostly a cosmetic solution, so if you’re dealing with something structured or in the outsole, take these favorite shoes to a shoemaker or replace them entirely. You will need:
- Patchwork : Used as a patchwork pattern.
- Final fabric : This is what the stripes will be made of
- Scissors
- Pen or pencil
- Glue : Carpentry glue works well
- Small brush : for even application of glue to stains.
Place the piece of fabric over the area you want to cover and outline the shape of the patch. You must make a pattern for each shoe as they may vary slightly due to differences in wear over time. Use a pattern to cut a patch from your finished fabric. Make sure you buy extra in case you need to redo a patch.
Apply glue to each stain using a paintbrush to make sure the glue is even and won’t run off the edges. Align it where the sole meets the upper fabric of the shoe, then smooth the patch to the shape of the shoe, working up towards the top of the shoe. Wait for the glue to dry, then use a brush to apply more glue to all edges that are not fully glued. Over time, you will have to reapply the patches, especially if you get your shoes wet, but at least you can squeeze out a little more of the worn out shoes you like.
DIY patches for your favorite shoes | Heart and habit