How To Paint Your Own 1920s Flapper Shoes

Hi! Today I’m going to show you how to take a pair of 1920s white “paint-your-own” 23Skidoo spectator t-strap heels and transform them into the most amazing, glamorous, show-stopping flapper shoes fit for any Gatsby party.

The great thing about the white 23Skidoos is that they are *so* customizable with just a little Angelus Leather Paint and some creativity.  Imagine the possibilities!

You Will Need:

• 23Skidoo Spectator T-Strap Shoes in White
• Angelus Leather Paints in black an metallic gold
• Angelus Leather Preparer & Deglazer
• Angelus Acrylic Finisher in Matte
• Fabric or Leather Glue Pen
• Glue-on Rhinestones

1. First wipe your shoes thoroughly with Angelus Leather Preparer & Deglazer.  This removes the factory finish and allows the paint to stick.

*Note: If you cannot get Angelus Leather Preparer in your country, use a solvent such as acetone nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol

2. Begin painting the gold sections of your shoes.  For metallic paints, you will need to apply multiple coats to achieve a consistent finish – I have applied 8 coats to build up the metallic color to the strength I wanted.  Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.

3. Next it’s time to paint the black.  Use a small brush to paint the pinked edge and holes of the spectator styling, and a larger flat brush to paint the toes and heel.  Apply two or three coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

4. When all the painting is done, and the shoes are thoroughly dry, apply a coat of Angelus Acrylic Finisher in Matte.  This seals and protects your painted shoes, and gives a uniform finish.

*The acrylic coat goes on milky, but dries clear

5. Now it’s time to apply your rhinestones.  Simply glue them on in the design you like, and allow to dry thoroughly before wearing.

That’s all there is to it!  Your shoes are now completely unique as well as historically accurate!

Need inspiration?  Check out these metallic and bejeweled heels from history:

Bata Shoe Museum

KCI, 1925

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