DIY Platform Sandal Making: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Platform sandals are enjoying a major comeback, offering a stylish and comfortable boost to any outfit. But why settle for mass-produced options when you can create your own unique pair? This DIY project empowers you to design and craft personalized platform sandals, tailored to your exact style and preferences, all while potentially saving a significant amount of money compared to retail prices. You'll be surprised at how accessible and rewarding this craft can be, even for complete beginners. Forget generic footwear – let's unleash your creativity.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to making your own stunning platform sandals. From selecting the right materials to the final touches, we'll walk you through each stage of the process, ensuring you create a pair of sandals you'll be proud to wear. So gather your supplies and prepare to transform your design ideas into a wearable masterpiece.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Leather (wet loose first leather and black soft leather)
  • Contact Adhesive
  • Edge Coat
  • Scissors
  • Sandpaper
  • Zipper
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris during cutting and sanding.
  • Sharp tools like knives and saws should be handled with extreme caution. Cut away from yourself and use a cutting mat to protect your work surface.
  • Ensure the wood is properly secured before cutting or drilling to prevent injury and ensure clean cuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Front Pattern

    • Cut out the front pattern. This video references other tutorials on cutting patterns.
    • Line the front pattern with the lining leather. Apply contact adhesive to both the upper and lining leathers.
    Line the front pattern with the lining leather. Apply contact adhesive to both the upper and lining leathers.Line the front pattern with the lining leather. Apply contact adhesive to both the upper and lining leathers.
    Prepare the Front Pattern

  2. Trim and Finish the Upper

    • Carefully trim excess leather after applying the adhesive.
    • Coat the edges of the combined upper and lining leather.
    Coat the edges of the combined upper and lining leather.Coat the edges of the combined upper and lining leather.
    Trim and Finish the Upper

  3. Attach the Upper to the Sole

    • Attach the front piece to the base/sole using fingers to ensure correct placement and alignment. (Specific finger placement technique is shown.)
    Attach the front piece to the base/sole using fingers to ensure correct placement and alignment. (Specific finger placement technique is shown.)
    Attach the Upper to the Sole

  4. Complete the Sandal

    • Bottom the sandal. Attach the bottom sole.
    • Add sock lining or other cushioning material (optional).
    Add sock lining or other cushioning material (optional).Add sock lining or other cushioning material (optional).
    Complete the Sandal

Read more: DIY Reversible Baby Slippers: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Tips

  • For a clean finish, don't apply adhesive to both the upper and lining if you plan to stitch. The presenter prefers to conserve adhesive this way.
  • When positioning the upper on the sole, align the 'C' curve of the sandal with the center line of the sole.
  • Adjust the placement of the upper to accommodate different shoe sizes. Push forward for larger sizes, backward for smaller sizes.
  • Ensure that the sides of the sandal are properly aligned before and during the lasting process, keeping them from opening up.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Platform Base

Reason: Inconsistent cutting or gluing of the platform layers can lead to an uneven base, resulting in an unstable and uncomfortable sandal.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut each platform layer to ensure consistent size and shape before gluing, and use clamps to secure them during drying.

2. Improper Strap Attachment

Reason: Poorly attached straps can cause discomfort, looseness, or even breakage. This can be due to weak glue, incorrect stitching, or poorly positioned eyelets/buckles.
Solution: Use strong adhesive, reinforce stitching with extra layers of thread, and ensure eyelets/buckles are securely fastened and properly placed before attaching straps.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make DIY platform sandals?
You'll need a sturdy sole (wood, cork, or recycled materials work well), comfortable straps (leather, fabric, or faux leather), strong adhesive (like E6000), scissors or a rotary cutter, a measuring tape, and possibly some decorative elements like beads or studs.
How comfortable are homemade platform sandals?
The comfort level depends on the materials you choose and the construction. Using cushioned insoles and selecting soft, pliable straps will dramatically increase comfort. Proper sizing and support are also key to avoid discomfort.
What if I make a mistake during the process?
Don't worry! Mistakes happen. With many DIY projects, minor imperfections add character. If it's a significant error, you can try to carefully correct it, or repurpose some of the materials for another project. It's a learning process!