Q&A for How to Paint Shoes

It depends on what type of paint you have on the shoes. If it's water based, all you need to do is moisturize it using a cotton ball and warm water. Leave it for a few minutes and then scrape off using the dull side of a butter knife. If the paint is oil based, it’s a bit more tricky since you need to a thinner in order to make the paint softer to the point where you can start scraping it off the shoes.

On vinyl or leather shoes, acrylic paint will probably wash off with water. This also can work for canvas shoes; they'll just need a thorough soaking.

Use fabric paints or sharpies, this way the paint will last better outdoors.

You technically can, but it is suggested that you use fabric paints or Sharpies. They will last better outdoors.

It won't come off if you use acrylic paint and Scotchgard or other sealant when complete.

Paint over the design with as many layers of white paint as needed until it is opaque, then repaint your design on top.

All fabric paints are basically the same. You have some that puff up after drying, but only if you layer it enough to make it puffy. Other than that, there's really no difference.

Acrylic paint with any kind of sealer is your best option. You can even use permanent markers. You may want to prime your surface first so the paint sticks better.

if you are using acrylic paint, then it will most likely be fully dry in 3-4 hours. However, it is best to leave it overnight, just to be sure, as you never know whether or not parts of the shoe are still wet.

Yes, you can, Mod Podge is one of various possible options that will work to seal your shoes after painting them.

It's probably best to use leather paint. This is so that it won't crack as bad like acrylic and fabric paints.

Yes! That works well. You may want to think about sealing them after so they can be cleaned.

Remove all the shoe polish first either with hot water and liquid soap and a brush; or, remove with rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits and cotton wool. Then wait for the shoe to dry. Then spray paint the shoe. The paint should not crack or peel off is all the polish has been thoroughly removed from the leather first.

Yes, you can use it on leather. Just let it sit longer and maybe have more coats but it is what is mostly used on leather.