I turned my boring flip flops into a super cute, custom pair of sandals just in time for the pool season! I’ve been having so much fun trying different summer crafts, and giving a plain pair of shoes a colorful makeover seemed like the perfect project. Let’s be honest, basic plastic flip-flops can sometimes be incredibly plain and boring right out of the store. Giving them a makeover is surprisingly easy and so much fun. It’s the perfect project for a lazy summer afternoon. You can add pops of color or embellish them with charms to create a pair that’s completely unique and full of personality.
Sandal Makeover Video Tutorial
More ribbon craft idea to try:
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Our viral videos are super popular and fun to watch. Here’s the DIY braided flip-flop on TikTok, and the YouTube video is also at the bottom of this post so you can watch the full tutorial. Links below for all our socials. Follow and be the first to see our latest crafts. ⬇️
If you’re tired of your old flip-flops and want something new without buying a new pair, try this ribbon hack. Decorating flip-flops with ribbon instantly elevates their style! Ribbons and simple embellishments are surprisingly affordable, and you can easily find everything you need for this fun and budget-friendly summer DIY project in your local craft aisle. I combined neon pinks and sunset yellows to create a bright, sunny look, then added a few butterfly charms to complete the design. Learning how to decorate flip-flops is one of those brilliant DIY fashion hacks everyone should try this season.
If you want to discover how to make flip flops look expensive, then you’ve come to the perfect place! This step-by-step guide is just one of the easiest DIY flip flop design ideas to choose from. It’s so simple to follow that anyone can do it, even beginners on their very first try. Creating custom flip flops is an absolute breeze, one of the best easy summer craft ideas.
List of Supplies for the DIY Sandals
Note: The length of the ribbon depends on the size of your flip-flops. I used size 10 flip flops.
- 5.2 ft (160 cm) pink ribbon
- 5.2 ft (160 cm) gold ribbon
- charms
- scissors
- flip flops
These products are all listed on our DIY JOY Amazon store, so you can order and know exactly what you will get, and when. We do earn a small commission on these links and very much appreciate your support ❤️
Custom Flip Flops With Ribbon Tutorial
Learn how to make these cute summer flip flops or beach sandals with this easy tutorial.
Step 1:
Fold the first ribbon in half. Insert the two ends from the top, between the strap and footbed, positioning the folded center at the toe post.
Fold a second ribbon of the same length in half. Insert its ends underneath the center loop of the first ribbon, then insert the ends of the first ribbon through the loop of the second ribbon to secure them together.
Separate the ribbon ends so you have two strands on the left side of the strap and two on the right.
Step 2:
Starting on the right side, take the two ribbon ends in different colors. Place the second ribbon over the first, then thread it through the strap and loop. Pull tight to secure.
Step 3:
Continue repeating Step 4 until you reach the end of the right strap.
Step 4:
Tie two knots to secure the ribbons, trim the ribbon, and tuck the ends into the braid along the strap.
Step 5:
Repeat Steps 4-6 on the left side of the strap.
Step 6:
Add charms or embellishments for a fun, personalized finishing touch.
Crafting Tip
Experiment with different colors!
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Ways to Customize Your Flip Flops Makeover
The thing I love about this flip flops makeover is that no two pairs ever come out the same. Once you’ve got the wrapping down, you can switch up the ribbon colors, mix in a fun print, or hot glue on charms, faux flowers, and pom-poms until they feel like yours. I like soft pastels for the beach and brighter colors for the pool. Make a set for yourself and a matching pair for a friend, because these are such a cute, budget-friendly summer craft to give as a gift.
Since it’s a no-sew sandal makeover, it comes together fast and it’s beginner-friendly, so it’s a fun one to do with the kids on a slow afternoon. A plain pair of flip flops costs almost nothing, which makes this an easy way to upcycle a worn-out pair or dress up a cheap new one. If you’re wondering how to makeover flip flops that actually hold up, keep the finished pair for the pool deck and patio, and save the long water soaks for your old ones. This whole flip flops makeover tutorial comes together in one relaxed afternoon.
Plain, inexpensive rubber or foam flip flops are perfect. You want smooth straps that the ribbon and embellishments can grip, so basic dollar-store or drugstore pairs work great. Save your worn-out ones and give them a colorful second life.
Yes, it is completely no-sew. You wrap and glue ribbon around the straps, so all you really need is ribbon, hot glue, and any charms or trims you like. It is an easy, budget-friendly summer craft that comes together fast.
Ribbon is the easiest place to start, but you can also add fabric strips, pom-poms, faux flowers, beads, or charms. Mix colors and textures to make a pair that matches your style, since anything you can hot glue securely to the straps will work.
It holds up well for everyday summer wear if you glue the ends down firmly and wrap the straps snugly. Keep them for the pool deck, the beach, or the backyard rather than long soaks in water, since too much water can loosen the glue over time.
More Easy Summer Craft Ideas
Painting & Art
Accessories
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