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Painting black canvas sneakers

Do you want to paint your black fabric shoes to customize them and make them original? We share our tips in this article for successful customization whether on a pair of Vans or Converse.

Preparing your canvas sneakers

Application of stencils

If you want to paint on black canvas shoes, it is possible to use stencils. Choose a stencil on a board and position it where you want it on the pair and protect the edge with masking tape if necessary. Here, we used flames. Press your stencils well with your fingers. If you don't want any space between the stencil and the fabric, heat it closely in the dryer so that it completely fits the shape of the shoe.

Creation of an undercoat

On black, applying color requires a white undercoat so that the rendering is impeccable. Use white textile primer which will also prevent smudging when removing the stencil.

Since textile primer is thicker than standard paint, it is applied using a special sponge. Tap to fill the stencil with 1 to 2 undercoats of white so that the rendering is uniform.

Painting your black canvas sneakers

Once your stencil design is well filled with white and the paint is completely dry, you can start filling it with colors. Use other sponges and special fabric paint that you have selected according to your tastes.

Application of paint

On a stencil, it is advisable to use sponges with two sides. The small one to spread the color and the large one to blot it afterwards. If you have protected the area with masking tape, remove a little excess directly on it before tapping into the stencil.

In general, two to three coats are enough to have a uniform and good quality rendering. Don't forget to dry with a hair dryer for a few seconds before adding another coat.

Touch-ups and finishing touches

Once you are done, remove the stencil slowly following the shape of the pattern using a hook or a precision cutter.

If you are happy with the result, let the whole thing dry for 24 hours and if you want to correct details, take a small fine brush or a suitable marker. For example, a black marker can easily correct some unexpected smudges due to the removal of the stencil.

Protecting paint on canvas sneakers

Once your customization is finished, the paint will not smudge or fade over time and washing. To ensure that it lasts over time, you can apply varnish and waterproofing.

Applying a varnish

This step is optional if you wash your fabric sneaker cold or on a delicate cycle (<40°).

To keep the colours bright even on a black background, you can varnish the pair using a matte or glossy varnish depending on the desired result.

Waterproofing your canvas sneakers

To waterproof your black canvas sneakers, even customized ones, use a special protector. You must wait 24 hours for your creation to dry before applying it and being able to take them out even in the rain. Spray the protector 30 cm from the shoe for a waterproof finish.

After all these steps, you have unique and personalized sneakers according to your desires. Do not hesitate to share your creations on the networks and even inspire yourself to make even crazier creations!

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