Painter’s tape 2 to 3 cans of acrylic paint with a gloss finish Topcoat or waterproofing finish Isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol Newspaper or plastic bags Plastic storage tub Lukewarm water Gloves and a dust mask Metal or silicone stir stick Hydro dipping kit, optional
If you want a little practice, try dipping an old pair of sneakers before dipping a new pair of white shoes.
Don’t have isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol at home? You could also lightly scuff the shoes with sandpaper so the paint adheres to the fabric better. If you’re dipping canvas shoes, you can skip this step.
Want the inside of your shoe to be painted and colorful? No problem—just don’t stuff the shoes with anything.
If you use cold water, the spray paint can clump on the surface. You can easily pick up plastic tubs that are perfect for this at your local thrift store.
If you’re working indoors, open all the windows in your room and turn on a fan to get the air moving. If you’ve got a respirator, use that instead of a dust mask for even more protection.
Although you can use other finishes like matte or satin, they may dry faster on the surface of the water, so it’s harder to dip your shoes.
If you want to make a unique solid color, completely swirl the colors together.
If you don’t apply a topcoat or waterproofing spray, the paint will crack faster.
Use a fresh piece of hydrographic film to dip the second shoe. Some kits supply you with a dust mask and gloves. If yours doesn’t come with them, just pick them up before you get started.
