How to turn tire into handmade sandals? Tired of spending too much money on the same commercial sandals everyone else wears?
How to turn tire into handmade sandals
Then why not consider upcycling a discarded tire into your own handmade sandals? It’s easy to do and turns a waste material into something that can be worn as a stylish accessory. There are a number of ways to make your own sandals from tires, from a basic pair to a more ornamental pair.
Preparation
Before you start creating your sandals, you’ll need the proper materials and tools. To make a basic pair of sandals, you’ll need:
- A pair of scissors
- A tire
- Leather scraps
- Rope or laces
- Sandpaper
Cutting the Tire
The first step is to cut the tire into the desired shape. This will be the base of your sandals. Take a look at the tread of the tire and identify the middle section. Cut the sides of the tire along the tread and then cut along the middle section. This should give you four pieces in the shape of a wheel: two large circles and two smaller circles.
Using the sandpaper, lightly sand down the edges of the tire to smooth them. This will help to prevent any sharp edges from irritating your feet.You can also go over the surface of the tire to give it a softer, smoother texture.
Attaching the Footbed
Once the tire is cut, you’ll need to attach the footbed. Cut two pieces of the leather into a size that fits onto the circles of the tire. Make sure to leave an extra inch or two of space around the edges so that your feet can fit comfortably.
Once you’ve cut the leather pieces, use the scissors to make two holes, one at the toe and one at the heel of each piece. Thread the rope or lace through the holes and use the ends to tie the leather pieces onto the tire. This will form the main footbed of your sandals.
Making the Straps
Now that the footbed of the sandals is complete, the next step is to make the straps. This will secure the sandals onto your feet. First, you’ll need to cut the leather into thin strips. Two strips for the instep straps and two for the ankle straps.
To attach the straps, you’ll need to make two holes on each side of the tire, one for the instep straps and one for the ankle straps. Thread the straps through the holes and use the ends to tie them in place.
Staining and Finishing
Once the straps are in place, it’s time to finish off the sandals with some extra details. If the tire is a light colored material, you can use a stain to add some color. This will give the sandals a more stylish look. Once you’ve added the stain, use a coat of sealant to protect the surface of the sandals.
Final Steps
When the sandals are complete, you’ll need to add the finishing touches. Take a pair of scissors and make three or four small cuts at the toe of the sandals. This will give your feet more room to breathe.
Finally, thread some extra pieces of rope or laces through the straps. These pieces will act as laces and allow you to tie the sandals together. This step will secure the sandals onto your feet and prevent them from slipping off.
Wear and Care
Your handmade sandals are now ready to wear! Be sure to take care of your sandals, by cleaning them regularly and storing them in a cool, dry place when not in use.
FAQs
What materials do I need to make handmade sandals?
You’ll need a tire, a pair of scissors, leather scraps, rope or laces, and sandpaper.
Can I add any extra details to the sandals?
Yes, you can add extra details like a stain or sealant for a more stylish look.
How do the straps secure the sandals to my feet?
The straps run through the sides of the tire and are tied in place. Threading extra pieces of rope or laces through the straps will help to secure the sandals and keep them from slipping off.
How should I store my sandals when not in use?
Store your sandals in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Can I wear the sandals outdoors?
Yes, you can wear the sandals outdoors. However, be sure to take care of them and clean them regularly.
Conclusion
Making your own handmade sandals out of a discarded tire is easy and fun. It’s a great way to reduce waste and upcycle a discarded material into something stylish and useful. With a few simple steps, you can turn a tire into a stylish and unique pair of sandals.
