DIY: Watercolor Hi Tops

When it comes to watercolor paints, I’ve always loved the way the colors blend and bleed together. So, why not transfer the look into a project? And since there’s nothing as classic as a pair of white Chucks, I decided to apply that idea on a brand new pair.

I used 3 colors of RIT fabric dye and a few specific techniques. Paired with some Ombre Dyed Shoelaces, these kicks are all set for spring time. Keep reading for the how-to!

Supplies:

– Converse Chuck Taylor Hi Tops in Optic White

– Concentrated Fabric Dye *
– Paintbrush
* (2-3 Colors. RIT Dye prepared with a heavy dye to water ratio, in favor of the dye. I used about 1/3 of each box for each small container.

Before You Start:
Head outside for this project, if you can! It can be a messy one.

1) Dip the paintbrush into the first dye and create short brush strokes on the sneakers. I went with the denim blue first.

2) Add the next color (in my case, maroon).

3) Add the third color (tea!). Don’t think too much about the placement of each stroke — the more random, the better. Don’t forget about the sneaker’s tongue, too.

4) When you’re all done, rinse under hot water.
(This would also be best done outside, but the outdoor hose at my place is currently broken!)

Rinse until the water runs clear.

5) While the sneakers are wet, go back and add more dye. I simply dipped the brush in dye then dabbed in random places; the color will instantly disperse.

At this point, the dye will bleed and blend in a different way than earlier. As a result, you’ll get both the brush stroke look and blending. True watercolor status.