DIY Shoe Upcycling: Create Unique Footwear from Old Sandals

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Tired of those old sandals gathering dust at the back of your closet? Before you toss them, consider the possibilities! Upcycling your old footwear is a fantastic way to express your creativity, reduce textile waste, and create unique, personalized sandals that reflect your individual style. This surprisingly simple process allows you to transform worn-out pairs into stylish and comfortable shoes, breathing new life into forgotten favorites and saving you money in the process. Think vibrant embellishments, striking color combinations, and ingenious design solutions – all achievable with a little imagination and readily available materials.

This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process, transforming your old sandals into eye-catching, one-of-a-kind pieces. From choosing the right materials to adding those finishing touches, we'll cover everything you need to know to upcycle your old sandals and add a touch of personal flair to your summer wardrobe. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Old sandals
  • Scissors
  • Contact cement
  • White pencil
  • Rubber
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors or a craft knife with caution. Cut away from yourself and keep fingers clear of the blades.
  • If using glue, work in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Some glues are flammable or can irritate skin.
  • Ensure any embellishments or added materials are securely attached before wearing to prevent them from becoming loose and causing tripping hazards.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Old Sandals

    • Cut off desired pieces from old sandals.
    • Select the ankle pieces from the cut sandals.
    Select the ankle pieces from the cut sandals.Select the ankle pieces from the cut sandals.
    Prepare Old Sandals

  2. Position and Mark Ankle Pieces

    • Position the ankle pieces onto the new shoe base (obtained from a flea market).
    • Mark the placement of the ankle pieces using a white pencil.
    Mark the placement of the ankle pieces using a white pencil.Mark the placement of the ankle pieces using a white pencil.
    Position and Mark Ankle Pieces

  3. Attach Ankle Pieces

    • Apply rubber to secure the ankle pieces to the base.
    • Use contact cement to permanently attach the ankle pieces to the shoe base.
    Use contact cement to permanently attach the ankle pieces to the shoe base.Use contact cement to permanently attach the ankle pieces to the shoe base.
    Attach Ankle Pieces

Read more: DIY Reversible Baby Slippers: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Tips

  • Choose sandals with easy-to-remove parts.
  • Source inexpensive, used shoes as a base for upcycling.
  • Ensure a sturdy connection using appropriate adhesive (contact cement).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Adhesive

Reason: Incorrect glue may not adhere properly to the materials of the sandals and embellishments, leading to detachment and ruining the project.
Solution: Always use a strong adhesive specifically designed for fabrics and the materials you're using, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

2. Inadequate Preparation of the Sandals

Reason: Dirt, old glue residue, or loose threads on the sandals can prevent proper adhesion of new materials and cause uneven finishes.
Solution: Thoroughly clean and prepare the sandal surfaces by removing dirt, old glue, and loose threads before applying any new materials.

3. Over-Embellishment

Reason: Adding too many decorations can make the sandals look cluttered, heavy, and uncomfortable to wear.
Solution: Plan your design carefully and stick to a cohesive aesthetic, focusing on quality over quantity of embellishments.

FAQs

What kind of glue is best for attaching embellishments to my sandals?
A strong adhesive like E6000 or a fabric glue designed for flexible materials works best. Make sure the glue is suitable for the materials you're using (fabric, leather, plastic, etc.) and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Can I upcycle sandals that are already quite damaged or broken?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Minor wear and tear is fine, but if the soles are separating significantly or the straps are irreparably broken, it might be more challenging. Focus on areas that are still intact and consider using additional support (like adding new straps or reinforcing the sole) to create a stable and wearable shoe.