Tuesday, March 13, 2012

DIY: Sneaker Makeover


Since the weather is getting warmer we figured it was time to get our girls some new shoes to run around in. After all who wants to be wearing boots in 60 degree weather? So we found these sneakers at walmart for $5. I couldn't resist! But I know my kid. White sneakers for a 3 year old, bad idea. So I decided I would just dye them! 

We went outside for 30 minutes and this is what her new sneakers looked like:


As you see my decision to dye them was for the best! But before I dyed them I wanted to clean them up a little bit. So I used my hubby's secret sneaker cleaning trick. He uses an old toothbrush and toothpaste. 


Yes, you read that correctly. When we get to the end of a tube I just stash it under the sink for him to use, and it works like a charm on the rubber part. 

Can you see the difference?

I love this trick!

Once I got both of the sneakers cleaned I started the dye process. We decided to dye them denim blue, because she wears denim skirts 95% of the time when out playing. 


I used the bucket method to dye them. So I took a huge bowl, that I normally use for cleaning, and filled it with HOT water. I'm talking steaming hot. Then added the dye to the water and stirred it.


I wet the sneakers with clear HOT water. Then I dipped the sneakers in, moved them around for a bit, and let them sit for around 30 minutes.


Then I rinsed them with cool water until the water ran clear. Once the water was clear I squeezed them a little to try and pull out any extra water. Then I set them to the side to dry.


As they dried they got a little bit lighter but I still really like the color. The whole process took less than an hour and now 'A' can run in the grass without me cringing. :o)




Leave a comment and let me know what you think.




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4 comments:

  1. These are so cute - and a great quick fix!
    Found you on The Southern Institutute - would love for you to come by for a visit!

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  2. Thanks ladies!

    @Ann I will definitely check out your blog

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  3. How did you keep the rubber from getting dyed?

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