Guess What I'm Making?

I'm gearing up for the next show in the Williams Mill Gallery called "Design on Main Street" happening November 7th-18th. This art exhibit and sale is all about wearable art! It's going to feature some fabulous artists. So here I'm thinking "What can I do with my skills to create something new and exciting?" Well, I'll tell ya! I picked out some size 9 sale bin platform stilletos and I'm planning to make them sensational!

Here's a couple of "before" shots.

So the heels started out basic black. Now, I remember those days when I had to wear heels a lot for special events and decided to make a few upgrades. First, I ripped out the insoles which were poor in the first place with lumps and bumps. No wonder our feet hurt! Then I installed some comfort insoles and stitched up an artsy insole to go on top.

Then I sanded all the rough edges on the platforms and bottom soles. Have you ever snagged your tights with your heels and made a hole? I thought it prudent to smooth everything out. I also sanded off the old finish on the platforms and heels.

What to do with the tip of the shoe? Any paint or fabric would scratch and wear off on the first try, so I decided to cut out and inlay some copper sheet metal into the platform toe. After that I painted the platforms and heels, added more detail on the inside of the shoe and then stretched some fine woven steel chainmaille over the platform and heel.

Now for the tricky part, I want to create my signature style of fabric collage with free motion stitching to the main part of the shoe. That's what I'm working on now. Here's what I've got so far...

...and here's what my studio work station looks like....

I'll keep you posted on how it's going but if you want to try them on....you'll just have to pop by the Mill! :)
Christine
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Update! Guess, what? They're finished!!!!

After soooo much more work, these shoes are finished and good to go. I completed the artwork, applied it to the shoes, added finishing elements inside and outside of the shoes, treated everything with stain/UV protection and applied more than 200 Swarovski crystals. Then I bought a gorgeous box which I lined with dark rust velvet and included 2 organza bags to hold each shoe. Here's some photos of the finished shoes. They're currently featured at the "Design on Main Street" art to wear show at Williams Mill Visual Arts Centre. I'll be adding them to my Etsy shop too! I decided to name them "Art Diva".

Here's some photos of the finished shoes. Enjoy!