Creating Dreamy Lace Wedding Shoes Yourself

Wedding shoes can be expensive, but they don't have to be. With a few simple steps, you can transform plain shoes into beautiful lace wedding shoes. This introduction will cover everything you need to know about making your own lace wedding shoes, from choosing the right shoe style to gluing on the lace. You'll also learn about the different types of lace and adhesives available, as well as how to ensure your shoes are comfortable and stylish for your big day. By the end, you'll be able to create your own unique and elegant wedding shoes that complement your wedding look perfectly.

Choosing a base shoe

Comfort

The first thing to consider when choosing your base shoe is comfort. You'll be on your feet most of your wedding day, so it's important to choose a shoe that you can walk and dance in comfortably. If you're not used to wearing high heels, consider opting for a mid-heel or a flat shoe. Additionally, choose a shoe that fits you correctly and is comfortable from the start. Your wedding shoes should also have extra padding on the insole for added comfort.

Style

The style of your base shoe will depend on your personal preference and the overall look you're going for. You can choose between various styles such as open-toe or closed-toe, heels or flats, and vintage-inspired or modern designs. If you're wearing a lace wedding dress, consider choosing a base shoe with a similar lace applique or opt for a simple style that will complement your dress.

Colour

The majority of wedding shoes are ivory or white, but if your wedding dress is in a vintage shade like nude, oyster, or champagne, you can opt for a coloured shoe. You can even have your shoes dyed to match your dress or your favourite colour.

Season

Consider the season of your wedding when choosing your base shoe. If you're having a summer or spring wedding, go for a breathable option like ivory lace heels with mesh detailing. For an outdoor wedding, a lace block heel, low heel, or flat might be more suitable, and don't forget to add a heel stopper if you're concerned about sinking into the grass. For a fall or winter wedding, lace booties will keep your feet warm and stylish.

When choosing your base shoe, take your time and consider your comfort, style preferences, and the practicalities of your wedding day. With a little thought and creativity, you can create beautiful DIY lace wedding shoes that are truly unique to you.

Buying the right glue

When it comes to buying the right glue to make your own lace wedding shoes, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of shoe material you will be working with is important. Common shoe materials include leather, rubber, vinyl, and canvas, and not all glues work equally well with these different surfaces. For example, if you are gluing lace to leather, you might want to avoid hot glue as it may damage the leather or cause discolouration. Instead, consider a glue specifically designed for leather, such as Aleene's Leather & Suede Glue, which dries clear, is flexible, and won't stain.

Secondly, the colour of the glue is something to keep in mind. Clear glue is often a good choice as it won't stand out or discolour the lace or shoe material. Many of the glues recommended for shoe repairs, such as Shoe Goo, dry clear and form a strong, flexible, and waterproof bond.

Thirdly, the drying and curing time of the glue is an important consideration. Some glues, like super glues, dry and cure very quickly (within seconds to a few minutes), making them ideal for small fixes and quick repairs. However, for larger repairs, such as gluing lace over a wider surface area, you may want to opt for a glue with a longer drying time to allow for adjustments. Urethane-based glues and neoprene cements typically have longer drying and curing times, providing more flexibility during the application process.

Additionally, the versatility of the glue is worth considering. While some glues work well with specific materials, others, like super glues, can be used on a wide range of surfaces. Having a versatile glue means you can use it for other shoe repairs or even household projects.

Lastly, the strength and durability of the glue are crucial factors. Look for a glue that forms a strong, flexible, and impact-resistant bond, especially if you plan to wear the shoes for extended periods. Some glues, like Barge All-Purpose Original Contact Cement, are waterproof and provide a strong, durable bond that can withstand heavy use.

• Tacky Glue: This glue is recommended by several sources for attaching lace to shoes. It dries clear and can be applied in sections, allowing you to work in small increments.
• Fabri-TAC: This adhesive was used successfully by someone who glued lace to "pleather" shoes, and it allowed for some adjustments during the process.
• E6000: This glue is suggested for attaching lace to leather wedges.
• Super Glue: Super glues are versatile, strong, and quick-drying, making them suitable for a wide range of shoe repairs. However, they may not be ideal for larger repairs that require more flexibility.
• Mod Podge: While not a glue itself, Mod Podge is often used as a sealant to protect the lace and other decorations on your shoes. It comes in various finishes, such as matte, shiny, and glitter.

Applying the lace

Now that you have chosen your lace, it's time to apply it to your wedding shoes. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the Shoes

Ensure your shoes are clean and dry. If necessary, use a damp cloth to wipe down the shoes and allow them to air-dry before proceeding.

Prepare the Adhesive

Pour your chosen adhesive, such as Tacky Glue or Fabri-TAC, onto a plate. Take a sponge brush and dip it into the glue. You can also use a Q-tip for smaller areas. Apply an even coat of glue to a small section of the shoe at a time, rather than covering the entire shoe at once. Work in manageable sections.

Apply the Tulle

If you are using tulle, now is the time to apply it. Take the tulle fabric and hold it relaxed, not stretched, and place it onto the glued area. Smooth it out with your fingers or a flat tool to remove any air bubbles or creases. You want the fabric to be as smooth as possible.

Trim the Tulle

Using scissors or a cuticle trimmer, carefully trim the excess tulle, leaving a small border. You will fold this border over and glue it to the inside of the shoe.

Secure the Tulle

Take a Q-tip and dip it into the adhesive. Use it to apply glue to the border of the tulle. Carefully fold the tulle into the inside of the shoe, securing it in place. Trim any remaining excess fabric.

Apply the Lace

Cut the lace into pieces that you can arrange on the shoe. Play around with the placement of the lace pieces before gluing, so you can decide on a pattern or design. Once you are happy with the arrangement, use your adhesive to glue the lace pieces in place.

Your wedding shoes are now ready for your big day!

Adding decorations

Now for the fun part: adding decorations! First, ensure your shoes are clean. Then, pour some Tacky Glue onto a plate and, using a sponge brush, apply an even coat of glue to a small section of the shoe. You can use the shoe's seams as a natural guideline. Take your chosen fabric, such as tulle, and place it onto the glued area, patting it down to ensure it is completely smooth. Smooth out any air bubbles or gathered fabric. Trim the excess fabric, leaving some space on the edges so that you can fold it over and trim the underside. Use a Q-tip dipped in extra glue to seal the fabric onto the inside of the shoe.

Next, take your lace and cut it into pieces that you can arrange on the shoe. Play around with the arrangement until you find a pattern you like. Then, glue the pieces onto the shoe. You can also add extra decorations such as crystals or glitter paint. Finally, paint a thin coat of Mod Podge all over the shoe to seal everything together.

Sealing the shoe

Start by ensuring your shoes are clean and free of any dirt or debris. You can use a soft cloth to wipe down the shoes gently. It is important to have a clean base before sealing to ensure the best adhesion. Once your shoes are clean and dry, you are ready to begin the sealing process.

The most common product used to seal lace wedding shoes is Mod Podge. Mod Podge is a type of sealer that can be painted over the lace and any other decorations to protect them. Pour a small amount of Mod Podge onto a plate or palette, and use a sponge brush to carefully apply a thin coat over the entire shoe. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, and apply the Mod Podge smoothly and evenly. Allow the first coat to dry completely before deciding if you need to add another. Two coats should be sufficient to seal your shoes.

If you do not wish to use Mod Podge, there are other types of sealers available. One option is a fabric sealer spray, which can be applied by spraying an even coat over the entire shoe. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply in a well-ventilated area. Another option is a clear acrylic sealer, which can be brushed on like the Mod Podge. Again, be sure to follow the instructions on the product you choose.

Once you have applied your sealer of choice, allow your shoes to dry completely. It is important to give the sealer enough time to cure and set properly. This will ensure that your lace and decorations are securely attached to your shoes. After they are dry, you can admire your handiwork and proudly wear your unique lace wedding shoes!

Frequently asked questions