When I caught the DIY bug, one of the first things I made was a pair of studded boots. It was around the time that Zara released this pair that I decided I MUST own bedazzled boots. For some reason, I had it in my head that the Zara boots were in fact Alexander Wang, and that I would never be able to afford them, and so I made these. I loved them, my friends loved them, and we still wear them years later (love a good DIY that stands the test of time!). Back when studded boots were the shoe to be seen in, I saw Rosie Huntington-Whiteley rocking this Alaïa pair, and knew I wanted in.
What you will need:
- Boots
- Zips (I used these)
- Assorted studs (I used these, these and these)
- Fabric glue (I’ve tried a few, but this is my favourite)
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Blu-Tack
- Unzip the zip fastenings.
2. Cut any fabric attached to the metal fastening off.
3. Measure a length of zip against your boot, depending on the design you want to create. Since my boots had a statement heel, I decided to embellish only the heel.
For each length of zip that you cut, cut a second piece that is identical in length for the second shoe.
6. Blu-Tack the zip into position – this makes it easier to visualise your overall design and will help when it comes to glueing later.
7. When you’re happy with your design, you can begin glueing the zips into place. I find it easier to do this by removing the Blu-Tacked parts bit by bit, replacing the Blu-Tack with fabric glue.
8. Press firmly on all glued parts to ensure a secure bond.
9. With the foundation design in place, you can add any smaller studs. Dab a small amount of fabric glue onto a square of tinfoil. Use tweezers to pick up the studs and gently coat the back in glue.
10. Affix the studs to the boot.
11. Leave to dry, and your boots are ready to wear!