If you have ever seen those cool mesh shoes on Pinterest or Instagram and wished you could have a pair. Well, now there’s no need to wish because I’m going to show you how to paint mesh shoes yourself! It’s straightforward, and the results are excellent. So, get ready to become a DIY fashionista and create your unique mesh shoe designs.
Mesh shoes are all the rage these days, and they are so versatile. You can wear them with jeans, shorts, skirts, or dresses. They are also perfect for summertime because they are breathable and comfortable. Plus, they look super stylish! But, the best part about mesh shoes is that you can paint them any color or design that you want. So, if you’re feeling creative, then painting your mesh shoes is a great way to express your personality and style.
Can You Paint on Mesh Shoes?
Though mesh shoes are not as common as they once were, you may still have a pair or two around that you wear for specific activities. However, if you’re thinking about giving them a new lease on life with a fresh coat of paint, you may be wondering if that’s even possible. The good news is that painting mesh shoes are doable, though there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind to ensure the best results.
First, it’s essential to use a specialty fabric paint designed to adhere to synthetic materials like mesh. You’ll also want to apply several thin coats of paint, allowing each one to dry completely before adding the next. Then, you can easily give your old mesh shoes a brand-new look with a little effort.
What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Mesh Shoes?
A few different types of paint can be used on mesh shoes, but the best option is acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is durable and will not chip or flake off easily, making it ideal for use on sneakers. It is also available in a wide range of colors, so you can find the perfect shade to match your sneakers. One downside of acrylic paint is that it can be difficult to remove once it dries, so be sure to test a small area before painting your entire sneaker.
Another type of paint used on mesh shoes is spray paint. Spray paint is more accessible to apply than acrylic paint and can provide a more even coverage. However, it is also more likely to run or drip, so be careful when applying it. In addition, spray paint does not come in as many colors as acrylic paint, so you may have to mix multiple cans to get the shade you want.
What You’ll Need
- Mesh shoes
- Acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes
- Paper towels or old rags
- Newspaper or a drop cloth
- Rubbing alcohol (optional)
- Clear sealant (optional)
Stepwise Guide on How to Paint Mesh Shoes
Step 1: Determine What Type of Shoes You Have
Before you start painting your shoes, you need to look at them and determine what type of shoes they are. If your shoes are made of canvas, denim, or any other natural fiber, you can follow the regular steps for painting shoes. However, if your shoes are made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, you will need to use a different method outlined in Step 6.
Step 2: Preparing the Shoes
Once you have determined what type of shoes you have, you can begin prepping them for painting. If your shoes are made of natural fibers, the first thing you will need to do is remove the laces and set them aside. Next, use a paper towel or old rag to wipe down the shoes, removing any dirt or debris. Once the shoes are clean, you can either leave them or prep them further by sanding them down. If you choose to sand your shoes, use light-grit sandpaper, so you don’t damage the material.
Step 3: Choose Your Paint
Now it’s time to select the paint you will use on your shoes. You can use any type of acrylic paint for this project, but you need to make sure it is thinned out properly. Mix 1 part paint and 1 part water to thin out the paint. Once the paint is thinned out, pour it into a cup or container that will be easy to dip your brush into.
Step 4: Painting the Shoes
Now that you have everything you need, you can start painting your shoes! Begin by putting down newspaper or a drop cloth to protect your work surface. Next, dip your brush into the paint and begin painting the shoes. Be sure to use long, even strokes and paint in one direction. If you need to, you can always add more paint to areas that seem too light. Once you are finished painting, set the shoes aside to dry for at least 24 hours.
Step 5: Seal the Shoes (optional)
Once the shoes are dry, you can decide whether or not you want to seal them. If you will be wearing the shoes often or if they will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear, then it is probably a good idea to seal them. To do this, simply brush on a layer of clear sealant. Then, allow the sealant to dry for at least 2 hours before wearing the shoes.
Step 6: Paint Synthetic Mesh Shoes
If your shoes are made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, you will need to use a different method to paint them. The first thing you will need to do is clean the shoes with rubbing alcohol. This will help remove any oils or dirt that might prevent the paint from adhering correctly.
Once the shoes are clean, you can begin painting them using the same method outlined in Step 4. Again, use long, even strokes and paint in one direction. If you need to, you can always add more paint to areas that seem too light. Once you are finished painting, set the shoes aside to dry for at least 24 hours.
Step 7: Paint Metallic Mesh Shoes
If your shoes are made of metallic mesh, you will need to take a few extra steps before painting them. First, use a paper towel or old rag to wipe down the shoes, removing any dirt or debris. Next, sand the shoes down with fine-grit sandpaper. This will help create a surface that the paint can adhere to.
Once the shoes are clean and sanded, you can begin painting them using the same method outlined in Step 4. Again, use long, even strokes and paint in one direction. If you need to, you can always add more paint to areas that seem too light. Once you are finished painting, set the shoes aside to dry for at least 24 hours.
Step 8: Inspect Your Shoes
Once the paint is dry, take a look at your shoes and make sure you are happy with the results. If there are any areas that you missed or that need touch-ups, add more paint and allow it to dry. Once you are satisfied with your shoes look, you can seal them with a clear sealant (optional).
Step 9: Enjoy Your New Shoes!
Now that your shoes are painted and sealed (if desired), you can enjoy wearing them! Be sure to show off your new shoes to all of your friends and family. Maybe they’ll be inspired to paint their shoes after seeing yours!
You Can Check It Out to Fix Hole in Shoe Mesh
Tips and Warnings
Tips:
Use a fabric medium when working with acrylic paint to increase the paint’s flexibility and help it adhere better to the fabric shoes.
- Test your paint on a scrap piece of mesh or another inconspicuous area of the shoes before starting. This will give you an idea of how the paint will look and dry on the shoes.
- If you want a distressed look, consider painting over areas of the shoes that would normally see a lot of wear and tear, such as the toes and heels. You can also rub the wet paint with a paper towel to create a textured effect.
- Let your painted shoes dry thoroughly before wearing them to avoid smudging the paint.
Warnings:
- Do not use regular paint on mesh shoes, as it will not flex with the shoes and will eventually crack and flake off.
- Be sure to protect your work surface from paint drips and spills. A newspaper or a drop cloth works well for this.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after painting to avoid staining them with paint.
With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a unique and stylish pair of painted mesh shoes. Just remember to use the correct type of paint and let your shoes dry thoroughly before wearing them. Then, with a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to create any design you can imagine!
Preserve the Painted Mesh Shoes
If you’ve painted a pair of mesh shoes and want to keep the paint job looking its best, here are some tips on how to preserve it.
1. Keep them Clean
This seems like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating. Keeping your shoes clean will help prevent dirt and debris from building up and eventually damaging the paint surface.
2. Use a Sealant
A clear sealant will help protect the paint job from scuffs and scratches. You can find sealants specifically designed for use on shoes at most craft stores.
3. Store Them Properly
When you’re not wearing your painted mesh shoes, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight, as this can cause the paint to fade.
These simple tips will help you enjoy your painted mesh shoes for many years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Paint Can You Use on Mesh?
The best paint can vary depending on the mesh type and texture. However, some general tips that will work for most types of mesh include using a high-quality primer before painting, using a matte or semi-gloss finish, and using a sealer to keep the paint in place.
What Kind of Paint Can I Use on Shoe Fabric?
There are many different types of paint that can be used on shoe fabric, but the most common is latex. Latex paints are durable and resist water and other stains, making them a good choice for applications where Weatherproofing or Protection from Rain & Snow is necessary. Some other popular types of paint include acrylics, enamels, and oil-based paints. Always test a small piece of your new fabric first to make sure the finish you choose will work well with the fabric material and color you’re using.
Does Fabric Paint Work on Mesh?
Yes, Fabric Paint works on mesh. However, it is important to be careful when using fabric paint because it can cause damage to your mesh. You should also avoid applying too much fabric paint as this may lead to bubbling or peeling of the paint. Instead, use a light layer of fabric paint and allow it to dry before adding additional coats.
Can I Paint Mesh Shoes?
Yes, you can! And the best part is that it’s actually quite easy to do. All you need are some basic supplies, including latex paint and brushes or a sponge applicator. Start by painting the base of your shoe in any color that you like. Be sure to use a light touch so that the paint doesn’t streak or peel off prematurely. Once your base color is dry, add additional colors as desired using either brush or sponge applicators. You could also try stenciling patterns on top with a felt-tip pen if you want something more decorative than plain old shoes! When everything has dried completely, be sure to clean your painted shoes with acetone or polish cleaner before storing them away for future wear.
Conclusion
Mesh shoes are a popular style and can be painted to match any outfit. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to paint mesh shoes with acrylic paint to look like new again. Painting your mesh shoes is a great way to add personality and style to an otherwise plain pair of sneakers. So grab your paints, and let’s get started!
