I've been wanting to try this DIY with thrift store boots, but have been reluctant to spend money on a project that may not work out. I thought I'd give it a test run on something I already own first.
I bought these boots somewheres around 2005. I'm really not sure how they've avoided the giveaway pile for so many years... they've even moved with me no fewer than three times.
The boots before:
The boot(s) after:
I think my DIY boots look a bit like these, which are on sale for $625 at Saks.
Last, a side-by-side B&A shot for good measure:
What you'll need:
- old pair of boots
- box cutter or exacto knife
- super glue (optional)
- good sharp scissors
2) Using the box cutters, carefully cut across the top. Clean up the edge with scissors as needed.
3) Use box cutters to cut along the insole as well, in order to fully release the piece from the bottom of the toe.
4) Once the piece is removed from the shoe, try it on to gauge if the cut-out needs to be larger. (Mine did) Remark and cut as necessary.
5) For tall boots--like mine, cut the boot shaft at ankle or desired height. (OPTIONAL/see here)
6) If desired, cut a width from the shaft to use as a boot spat--like mine. (OPTIONAL/see here)
7) For a more finished look, cut a long thin strip to be used as bias tape. Superglue it in half lengthwise over your raw ankle cut. Repeat on toe cut if desired. (OPTIONAL/see here)
NOTE: The boots I used were synthetic, not real leather. This meant there were several layers of stretchy fabric type stuff to cut through and IT WAS A REAL PAIN! I recommend using real leather so you'll only have one layer to cut through.
What do you think? You likey? Are you inspired to refashion your unworn boots instead of buying new ones?
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15 comments:
Looks fantastic! Can't wait to see you wear them!!
Cute!!!!
These are HOTT!
and 8 weeks really? I wouldn't spend money on open toes either. Your DIY looks just the same.
another amazing diy!!! love love what you did with those boots!! totally updated the look! :D
sybil
Animated Confessions
Oooh Olivia! THis is AMAZING.
oxoxo
Denalee
I am 100% in awe of your creative vision! How you can look at something most would deem unwearable & see it turning into something amazing and fashionable is so inspiring! While it is not a style I personally would wear I know you will ROCK those open toe boots. Nice work sis!
you did a good job on these boots. I would never think to do something like this...your funny and pretty awesome all at the same time. i want to see what they look like on.
i think you might be the first person to DIY old boots into new boots. you should be proud of yourself.
Well done! I'm going to have to go to a thrift store and get some old boots to try this on!
Melanie@UnravelledThreads
whoa awesome! what a creative project for you to do yourself!
Pretty clever! I have thinking of shoe makeovers too but more along the line of fixing up flip flops. :-)
Brave lady! They turned out great though. This is a good idea as I find some shoes that are opened toe are too open for me, I now can get closed toe shoes and open them as I like. Great idea!
Eveshouse.blogspot.com
You were part of this week's FAB FIVE!!!
Go diva!
Make sure to check it out & Thanks for linking up to Make My Style Mondays. Hope to see you next week.
~L~
i definitely like, but doubt I'm brave enough to accomplish the same thing!
I wonder if fusible bindings would stick to synthetics or leather to give the toe opening a little more polish... hmmm.
Wow! They look great. I love that you shortened them too. I can't get over how awesome you are!
wow, great job!! that's so neat! I would be so nervous to cut up a pair of boots, but you did such a good job!
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