Sacredhaze's Custom Sneaker Guide: Preparing Your Sneakers for a Custom Paint Transformation

Embarking on a custom paint journey for your sneakers is an exciting way to express your individuality and breathe new life into your favorite kicks. However, before you unleash your creativity, proper preparation is key to ensure a flawless finish and long-lasting results. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to prep your sneakers for a custom paint transformation.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies Before diving into the customization process, gather the necessary supplies.

               Items you'll need

• acetone or a suitable deglazer
• cotton balls or swabs
• fine-grit sandpaper (We like to use 400grit to 800grit)
• masking tape (3m #2060 rough surface tape works best)
• a high-quality primer (Rust-oleum Clear Adhesion Promotor is our preferred primer)
• and of course, your chosen custom paint colors...Angelus Paint is our go to.

Step 2: Clean Thoroughly Begin by giving your sneakers a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt, oils, or previous coatings. Use a mild soap or sneaker cleaner and a soft brush to scrub away surface grime. Allow the sneakers to dry completely before moving on to the next step.. I usually skip this step with new shoes

Step 3: Remove Factory Finish To ensure optimal paint adhesion, you'll need to remove the factory finish from your sneakers. Gently sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper, focusing on areas that will be painted. This process creates a textured surface that helps the paint adhere better.

Step 4: Deglaze the Surface Use acetone or a professional sneaker deglazer to thoroughly deglaze the sneakers. Apply the solution to a cotton ball or swab and rub it over the entire surface. This step removes any remaining factory finish, oils, or contaminants, providing a clean canvas for your custom design.

Step 5: Masking Carefully use masking tape to cover areas you don't want to paint, such as the sole, logos, sock-liners or any specific design elements. Precision is crucial here to achieve clean lines and a professional finish.

Step 6: Apply Primer Applying a high-quality primer is essential for creating a smooth base and ensuring the longevity of your custom paint job. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific primer you've chosen, allowing sufficient drying time between coats.

Step 7: Let It Cure After applying the primer, allow your sneakers to cure completely. This step is crucial for the primer to bond effectively with the shoe's surface and provide a solid foundation for the custom paint.

Conclusion: By following these essential steps, you've now prepped your sneakers for a custom paint transformation. Whether you're going for bold and vibrant colors or intricate designs, a well-prepared canvas ensures your creativity will shine through. Get ready to step out in style with a pair of truly unique, custom-painted sneakers that reflect your personality and flair. Happy customizing!