How to Paint Leather Shoes with Acrylic Paint

Are you tired of your old shoes, but you still want to use them without leaving them. Well, We have a best solution for you, that will not only save your money but will also renew your old shoes into brand new shoes.

In this step by step guide, you will learn “How to transform your old faded, scuffed, dried leather shoes into stylish, unique and attractive masterpiece using the acrylic paint. So, let’s get started.

Here's the list of materials needed for painting leather shoes:

1. Leather shoes: Choose a pair of leather shoes that you want to transform. Make sure they are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
2. Acrylic paint: Select high-quality Angelus acrylic paints that comes up with alot of colors. Angelus Acrylic paints offer excellent coverage and durability on leather surfaces.
3. Paint brushes: Now it's time to select Angelus Paint Brushes, that comes up in set with 5 pieces with different styles. That's will be best choice to move to the next.
4. Glass Jars: Choose the reuseable mixing jars that comes in set of 6 from the famous Angelus Brand.
5. Painter's tape: Use painter's tape to protect certain areas of the shoes from paint splatters and create clean lines.
6. Clean Cloth: Keep a container of water and clean cloth  for cleaning your brushes and wiping away any mistakes.
7. Finisher: A leather sealer or finisher will help protect the paint and ensure its longevity on the shoes.

Now that you have all the necessary materials, let's move on to preparing the leather surface for painting.

Follow these steps to ensure that the paint adheres well to the leather surface:

1. Clean the shoes: Start by thoroughly cleaning the shoes with a damp cloth or a leather cleaner. Remove any dirt, oils, or stains that may interfere with the paint's adherence.
   
   
2. Sand the surface: Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently roughen the leather surface. This will create a better bond between the paint and the leather.
   
   
3. Apply a leather preparer: Angelus Leather preparers are specially formulated solutions that help the paint adhere better to the leather. Apply a thin layer of preparer using a clean cloth and let it dry completely.

Once the leather surface is prepared, you can move on to selecting the right acrylic paint colors.

The choice of paint colors is entirely up to your personal preference and the design you have in mind. However, here are a few tips to help you make the right color choices for your painted leather shoes:

1. 1. However, if your shoes are dark, lighter colors may not show up as vibrantly. In such cases, opt for darker or more opaque paint shades.
      
      
   2. Think about the design: If you have a specific design or pattern in mind, choose colors that complement each other and create a visually appealing contrast. Consider using a color wheel or color palette for inspiration.
      
      
   3. Experiment with mixing: Acrylic paints are highly versatile, and you can create an infinite range of colors by mixing them. Play around with mixing different shades to achieve the exact color you desire. Test on a small area: Before applying the paint to the entire shoe, it's always a good idea to test the colors on a small, inconspicuous area. This will give you an idea of how the colors will look on your shoes and allow you to make any necessary adjustments.
      
      
      

   Once the leather surface is prepared, you can move on to paint the acrylic paint colors on leather shoes.
   
   

   Step-by-step guide to painting leather shoes

    

   Step 1: Prepare your workspace: Find a well-ventilated area with a clean, flat surface to work on. Lay down some old newspapers or a drop cloth to protect your workspace from any paint spills or stains.

   Step 2: Tape off any areas: If you want to create clean lines or protect certain areas of the shoes from paint, use painter's tape to mask off those areas. Ensure that the tape adheres firmly to the leather surface.

   Step 3: Prime the shoes (optional): If you're working with a light paint color or want to ensure better coverage, apply a thin layer of white acrylic paint as a primer. This will help the colors appear more vibrant.

   Step 4: Apply the base coat: Start by applying a thin, even layer of your chosen base color using a flat brush. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

   Step 5: Layer the colors: Once the base coat is dry, use your brushes to layer on additional colors, creating depth and dimension. Work from light to dark, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next one.

   Step 6: Blend and shade: To achieve a more realistic or gradient effect, use a dry brush or a damp sponge to blend and shade the colors. This will give your shoes a professional and polished look.

   Step 7: Add details and accents: Now it's time to let your creativity shine! Use fine detail brushes to add intricate designs, patterns, or even fine lines. You can also use fabric markers or stencils for more precise designs.

   Step 8: Allow the paint to dry: Once you're satisfied with the design, let the paint dry completely. This may take a few hours or overnight, depending on the thickness of the paint layers.

   Step 9: Apply a second coat (optional): If you feel that the colors need more vibrancy or coverage, you can apply a second coat of paint. Make sure to let the first coat dry completely before applying the second one.

   Step 10: Seal the paint: To protect the paint and ensure its longevity, apply a thin layer of leather sealer or finisher. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow the sealer to dry completely.

   Congratulations! You've successfully painted your leather shoes with acrylics. Now, let's move on to adding some extra details and designs to make your shoes truly unique.

   
   Allowing the paint to dry and curing the shoes

    

   Once you've finished adding all the details and designs to your painted shoes, it's important to allow the paint to dry and cure properly. Follow these steps to ensure the longevity of your artwork:

   1. Let the paint dry: After adding the final touches, let the paint dry completely. This may take a few hours or even overnight, depending on the thickness of the paint layers.
   2. Cure the shoes: Once the paint is dry, allow the shoes to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours. This will ensure that the paint fully adheres to the leather and becomes more resistant to wear and tear.

   During the curing process, avoid wearing or placing any objects on the shoes to prevent smudging or damaging the paint. Once the shoes are fully cured, you can move on to the final step of sealing and protecting the painted leather.
   
   
   Finishing and protecting the painted leather shoes
   

   To protect your painted shoes and ensure their longevity, it's crucial to seal the paint with a suitable leather finisher. Follow these steps to apply a finisher and protect your artwork:

   1. Choose the right finisher: Use angelus finisher that's famous one. Read the product instructions carefully to ensure compatibility with acrylic paint.

   2. Apply the finisher: Using a clean brush or sponge, apply a thin, even layer of finisher over the entire painted surface. Make sure to cover all areas, including the designs and details.

   3. Let the finisher dry: Allow the finisher to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may take a few hours or overnight, depending on the product.

   4. Apply additional coats (optional): If desired, you can apply additional coats of finisher for added protection. Make sure to let each coat dry before applying the next one.

   By applying a suitable leather finisher to your painted leather shoes, you'll not only protect them from scratches and scuffs but also ensure that the colors remain vibrant and the designs stay intact for a long time.

   Tips and tricks for painting leather shoes with acrylics

    

   1. Start with clean shoes: Always clean your shoes thoroughly before starting the painting process. This will ensure better adhesion of the paint to the leather surface.

   2. Use light coats: Instead of applying thick layers of paint, use light and thin coats. This will help prevent cracking or peeling of the paint and allow for better color control.

   3. Allow drying time between layers: Make sure to let each layer of paint dry completely before applying the next one. This will prevent smudging and ensure that the colors remain true.

   4. Experiment and practice: Before painting your favorite pair of shoes, practice on a test surface or an old pair of shoes to get a feel for the paint and brushes. Experiment with different techniques and designs to find your style.

   5. Protect the soles: To prevent the paint from wearing off the soles of your shoes, apply a clear sealer or masking tape to protect these areas.

   6. Avoid excessive bending: While leather shoes are durable, excessive bending or stretching may cause the paint to crack or peel. Take care when wearing your painted shoes to maintain their integrity.

   7. Clean brushes thoroughly: After each painting session, clean your brushes with water and mild soap or brush cleaner. This will ensure that your brushes stay in good condition and ready for future use.

   8. Store properly: When not in use, store your painted shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve the colors and prevent any damage to the paint.

   By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to achieve professional-looking results and enjoy your beautifully painted leather shoes for years to come.

   
   

   
   
   
   
   Frequently asked questions about painting leather shoes

   Q: Can I paint any type of leather shoes?

   A: Acrylic paint works best on genuine leather or smooth leather surfaces. Avoid painting suede or patent leather shoes, as the paint may not adhere properly.

   Q: Will the paint crack or peel over time?

   A: If you properly prepare the leather surface, use high-quality acrylic paint, and seal the shoes, the paint should remain intact for a long time. However, keep in mind that excessive bending or wear may cause the paint to crack or peel.

   Q: Can I wash my painted shoes?

   A: While acrylic paint is quite durable, it's best to avoid washing your painted shoes. Instead, gently wipe them with a damp cloth or sponge to clean any dirt or stains.

   Q: Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process?

   A: It's not recommended to use a hairdryer or any other heat source to speed up the drying process. Allow the paint to air dry naturally to ensure proper curing and longevity.

   Q: Can I use acrylic paint on colored leather shoes?

   A: Yes, you can use acrylic paint on colored leather shoes. However, keep in mind that lighter paint colors may not show up as vibrantly on darker shoes.

   Q: How long does it take for the paint to dry completely?

   A: The drying time may vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the paint layers and the humidity level. On average, acrylic paint on leather shoes can take several hours to dry, and the curing process may take 24 to 48 hours.

   Q: Can I remove the paint if I'm not happy with the results?

   A: If you're not satisfied with the painted design, you can try removing the paint using a leather cleaner or rubbing alcohol. However, keep in mind that removing the paint may also strip away the original color or finish of the shoes.

   Q: Can I touch up or repaint my shoes in the future?

   A: Yes, you can touch up or repaint your shoes in the future if needed. Simply follow the same steps as before, starting with preparing the leather surface and applying a new coat of paint.