Creating Barefoot Wedding Sandals: A Step-By-Step Guide

Barefoot sandals are a popular choice for beach weddings, combining a toe ring, an ankle bracelet, and a strap connecting the two. They can be made using a variety of materials and techniques, from beaded designs to crochet patterns. With a few simple steps, you can create elegant and comfortable footwear for your special day.

Choosing the right materials

Type of String/Thread

The type of string or thread you choose will form the base of your barefoot sandals. You can opt for elastic string, twine, cloth, lace, or crochet yarn. When selecting the string, consider its visibility and choose a colour that complements your beads or accents the beads you have chosen. If you prefer to hide the string, go for a skin-tone colour or transparent elastic string.

Beads

Beads are a central component of wedding barefoot sandals, adding sparkle and elegance to your design. You can choose from a wide variety of beads, including sparkly gems, wooden beads, plastic craft beads, pearls, rhinestones, and metallic beads. Opt for beads that match your wedding theme or colour palette. You can also mix and match different types of beads to create a unique look.

Toe Ring and Anklet

The toe ring and anklet provide the base structure for your barefoot sandals. You can purchase these or make them yourself. If you decide to buy, you can find toe rings and anklets made from various materials, including metal, elastic cord, lace, or decorative cloth. If you're crafting them, you can use the same type of beads as your main design element or get creative with different materials like lace or elastic cord.

Tools

To assemble your barefoot sandals, you will need a few essential tools. Sharp scissors are a must to avoid fraying at the ends of the string. You will also need pliers, especially when working with metal components like crimp beads, clasps, and jump rings. Additionally, having a piece of felt or a soft surface to work on will prevent your beads from rolling away.

Measuring the string

To make wedding barefoot sandals, you'll need to measure the string so that it fits your foot. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Start with a long piece of twine or string. You can also use cloth, lace, or elastic cord if you prefer. Wrap it under your second toe and tie a knot within a half-inch of the base of your toe. This will serve as your toe ring.

Next, with both pieces of twine together, stretch them across the top of your foot and tie another knot about half an inch away from your ankle. This will be the point at which your beaded "straps" end.

Now, wrap the two ends of the twine around your ankle and cut the string where they touch. Remove the string from your foot, and you'll have a custom pattern to follow for your barefoot sandals!

It's important to measure with your foot extended, especially if you're using a string that isn't very stretchy. Measuring with your foot flat on the ground may result in a string that's too short.

Once you've cut your string, you can start adding beads. Choose beads that match your wedding theme or opt for sparkly gems or pearls for a bridal look. You can also use wooden beads for a more bohemian vibe.

Remember to leave about an extra inch on each end of the string when cutting. You'll use this extra material to tie your sandal together and secure the beads in place.

Follow these steps, and you'll have the perfectly sized string for your wedding barefoot sandals!

Adding beads

Choosing the Right Beads

Select beads that complement your wedding theme and colour palette. You can use sparkly beads that look like gemstones, colourful craft beads, wooden beads, or even pearls for a more elegant look. Consider using beads with a metallic or reflective finish to add some extra sparkle.

Preparing the Twine

Start by measuring how much twine you need by wrapping it under your second toe and around your ankle. Cut the twine with some sharp scissors, leaving about an extra inch on each end. You will use this extra material to tie your sandal together. Place the twine on a piece of felt to prevent the beads from rolling away while you work.

Adding the Beads

Now it's time to add the beads to the twine! Start with "seed beads" for the part of the sandal that goes between your toes. These beads are very small and comfortable. Next, add small beads to the middle of the twine until they match the length of your foot. You can use any type of bead you like for this section, such as small pearls or colourful craft beads.

Securing the Beads

Once you are happy with the number of beads, it's time to secure them in place. Tie one end of the beaded twine to your anklet and the other end to your toe ring. Make sure to double knot each end securely. Trim any excess thread from the knots, being careful not to cut your bracelet or toe ring.

Creating the Second Sandal

Repeat the above steps to create a matching sandal for the other foot. Try to make the sandals as identical as possible to create the illusion of real sandals.

Final Touches

Check that your barefoot sandals fit comfortably and securely. You can adjust the placement of the beads or the length of the twine if needed. Now you have a beautiful pair of beaded barefoot sandals ready for your wedding!

Tying the ends together

Now that you've decorated the twine with beads, it's time to tie the ends together to create your very own barefoot sandals!

Take one end of the beaded twine and tie it to your anklet, and then take the other end and tie it to your toe ring. Make sure to tie a secure double knot at each end. When tying the first end, ensure that the beads don't slide off the other side. You can ask a friend to hold the other end or use a bead stopper. A small piece of tape can also work as a bead stopper, as long as your beads are not made of a heavy material like metal.

Once you've tied both ends, trim any excess thread from each knot. Try to get as close to the knot as possible without cutting your bracelet or toe ring. Using small cuticle scissors will make this task easier and reduce the risk of accidentally cutting the wrong thread.

Repeat these steps to make a second matching "sandal" for the other foot. You now have a beautiful pair of barefoot sandals that are perfect for a beach wedding or any occasion where you want to look fashionable and feel comfortable.

Feel free to experiment with different types of beads, strings, and anklets to create unique designs that match your style and personality. You can also make multiple pairs in different colours and styles for various occasions, such as weddings, picnics, beach days, or even just lounging around the house!

Trimming the excess

If you're using beading wire, such as Softflex, you'll need to use a different technique to finish off your sandals. After you've added the beads and tied off the wire, add two crimp beads and a clasp to one side of the wire. Feed the wire back through the crimp beads and pull it tight. Use pliers to crimp the crimp beads flat, securing the end of the wire. Repeat this process on the other side, using jump rings instead of a clasp.

For a more professional finish, you can also trim the ends of the string or wire so that they are hidden within the beads. This will create a seamless look and ensure that no sharp edges are poking out.

Finally, don't forget to test the fit of your barefoot sandals. You may need to adjust the length of the string or wire to ensure a comfortable fit. Walk around in your sandals and make any necessary adjustments before trimming the excess.

Frequently asked questions