It’s no secret that I have a love of vintage treasures. There’s something about old, pre-loved pieces that hold a story of their own, a mystery, a whisper from the past, and I find it absolutely captivating. Don’t you agree?
So, on one of my many treasure hunts, I stumbled upon a charming vintage wooden shoe last. It was a little worn, but that’s where its charm lay. And immediately, my DIY senses started tingling. I thought, why not turn this into a decor piece? A project was born!
I shared some of my decorated shoes with you and so many of you love them as much as I do! Since you all can’t seem to get enough of them, I am lucky to be able to keep making more. It’s such a fun project and I wanted to share the process with you!
If you’ve found a similar gem or are simply intrigued by the idea, let’s embark on this creative journey together. Here’s how you can decorate a vintage wooden shoe and give it a beautiful new lease on life.
How to Decorate a Vintage Wooden Shoe
Before we start I want to clear up any semantic confusion. I use the words shoe, shoe last, and shoe form interchangeably. The proper name for these pretties is a shoe last. But sometimes people don’t know what I mean when I say it. And it’s much easier to just say “shoe” when I need to mention it mannnny times during a tutorial, hehehe.
So, while I often say “shoe”, what I am actually working with is a shoe last. Now you may be wondering, “what the heck is a shoe last then?” So here is what I have learned about them so far…
What is a Shoe Last?
A shoe last is essentially a form, traditionally made from wood, that shoemakers use as a mold to construct shoes. It’s shaped like a simplified version of a foot and comes in different sizes to match the variety in human feet. It’s the unsung hero in the shoe-making process, providing the shape and structure we see in the final product.
Now, imagine this tool of craftsmanship, aged with time, carrying countless stories of shoes it helped create – that’s what a vintage shoe last is! They’re often found in antique shops or flea markets, showcasing their charmingly worn wood, and sometimes even bearing the shoemaker’s markings. These pieces not only hold historical value but also offer a unique aesthetic that can add a rustic touch to your decor.
And, just like our previous DIY projects with vintage items, these shoe lasts can be creatively repurposed too! You can use them as bookends, doorstops, or even turn them into an intriguing centerpiece. The possibilities are endless when you let your creativity take the lead!
You Can Design your Old Shoe for any Season
Speaking of endless possibilities, you can decorate your vintage shoe to suit any holiday or season. Whether it’s spring blossoms, summer sunshine, autumn leaves, or winter snowflakes, your old shoe lift will always be in step with the season!
Spring Awakening
Ah, spring! It’s all about renewal and fresh beginnings. Why not reflect this in your shoes? Think pastel shades, floral patterns, and maybe even a touch of lace for that romantic vibe. I once stumbled upon a pair of mossy wooden shoes that were used as wall art – a delightful spring decor idea that could easily translate onto old shoes too!
Summer Fun
Summer calls for bright, bold colors and fun motifs. Try adding vibrant colors and florals to your vintage shoes. You could even add some sparkle with sequins or rhinestones for that extra glam factor. Soften it up a bit with some delicate ribbons and lace and you have a gorgeous shoe lift for summer.
Autumn Elegance
As the leaves change color, so can your shoes. Warm hues of orange, red, and brown can create a beautiful autumnal palette. A leaf motif or even a subtle plaid pattern can add a cozy touch to your vintage footwear.
Winter Wonderland
Winter gives us the perfect excuse to add some plush elements to our shoes. Think faux fur trimmings, velvet ribbons, or even some crystal embellishments to mimic the look of icicles. A pair of vintage shoes adorned with faux greenery and crystal twigs could even double up as a unique Christmas ornament!
The beauty of this DIY project is that it allows you to express your creativity and personal style in a way that’s completely unique!
How to Decorate a Vintage Wooden Shoe Supply List
- Vintage shoe last/form/or actual wooden shoe (or a new one
- Hemp oil and paper towel or clean cloth
- Decorative florals and greenery
- Vintage treasures to dress up your shoe last
- Hot glue gun
How to Decorate a Vintage Wooden Shoe Instructions
- First things first, clean your shoe thoroughly. Use a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust or grime. Remember, we want to preserve its vintage charm, so be gentle.
- Next rub hemp oil onto it with a paper towel or clean cloth. Then go back and wipe it off. The process is the same as when you are using wax or shining things. Wipe on, wipe off! The oil will restore the natural beauty of the shoe last. The difference is unbelievable and seeing the shoe come back to life is so satisfying.
- Now you can watch the video below and follow along as I attach all of my adornments with hot glue. Play around with your supplies and decide what you want to place where. I don’t like to cover up the unique markings on the shoe so I plan my design around leaving them visible. But you can do yours however feels right to you!
- Remember, there’s no right or wrong in crafting – it’s all about having fun and letting your creativity shine. 🌟Happy crafting, my fellow vintage lovers! Keep exploring, keep creating, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Until next time!
The Wrap Up
And voila! You’ve just turned an old wooden shoe into a piece of art. Isn’t it fascinating how with a little imagination and creativity, we can transform something ordinary into extraordinary?
Who knew something as utilitarian as a shoe last could have such artistic potential, right? That’s the beauty of vintage items – they carry a past life, a character, and an irresistible charm that can inspire us in the most unexpected ways.
So, next time you spot a vintage shoe last, don’t hesitate to pick it up! Who knows, it might just be the star of your next DIY project. 🌟
Happy treasure hunting, my creative friends! And remember, in the world of crafting, every object has a story to tell and a new life waiting to be imagined. Can’t wait to hear about your next vintage find!
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If you love creating vintage treasures as much as I do you can also join my membership group, Tami’s Making. There you will get exclusive tutorials that will teach you how to create beautiful and unique pieces that will fit perfectly with your vintage decor!
