Make Your Own Shoe Decals

We had so much fun using our Cricut Explore to create the iron-on decals for our girl’s leggings project that we couldn’t resist whipping up something for the boys too. These text decals are a subtle but totally rad way to dress up a pair of canvas shoes.

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

You could write your child’s name, or any favorite quote or phrase. Inspired by our slightly rambunctious boys, whom we’re always chasing after, we made “Catch Me If You Can” decals.

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

We couldn’t decide whether we liked better the regular wording or the leftover strip peeled off from around the words — so we used both! We’re very curious which way you prefer, so please leave a comment below and let us know.

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

SUPPLIES: We picked up these Van lookalikes at Old Navy. (I couldn’t find a link online, sorry.) You will also need a Cricut Explore and Cutting Mat, black matte adhesive vinyl, weeding tool (a craft knife works too), masking tape and a scraper tool (or a credit card).

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

TO MAKE: Cut your desired phrase using your Cricut Explore machine (We will be sharing our free cut file soon.) Carefully peel off the rectangle of vinyl surrounding your words. Be sure to work slowly so you won’t tear the vinyl or accidentally peel off any letters. If you are planning to adhere this rectangle as we did, go ahead and apply it to the shoes like you would a sticker. Rub firmly. Then return to your letters still on the backing paper. Using a pointy tool, weed out the centers of any letters that need it. Cover your letters with a piece masking tape and rub gently. Turn over and rub the back side with the scraper tool. Peel the backing paper off the letters, ensuring they are stuck well to the tape. Position your decal over the edge of the shoes and press on. Rub each letter firmly with the scraper tool, and carefully peel off the tape. (You can also watch Cricut’s videos for creating vinyl decals.)

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

So… what do you want your shoes to say?

How to make custom shoe decals from @PagingSupermom #CricutExplore

This post is our entry into the Cricut Design Space Star Challenge — wish us good luck!
Cricut Design Space Star

Bettijo Bridges

Administrator at Paging Supermom
Bettijo is the founder and designer of Paging Supermom where she shares creative ideas for family fun. Known for practical and kid-friendly activities, free printables and holiday entertainment. Bettijo was a guest on the Martha Stewart Show and has frequently appeared on local TV. Her work has also been featured in national magazines including Real Simple, O, Redbook, Parents, Family Circle, and Health. She enjoys art, retro-modern design, photography and making new things. Mom of 4 kids.

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