Geek Crafts: DIY Comic Book Heels

I love comic books, DIY projects, and unique fashion, so when I stumbled across a great comic book shoe tutorial online, I had to try it for myself! I had a great time making these pumps and I've gotten tons of compliments and positive feedback wearing them. I'll detail my particular experience and methods in this Hub for anyone else who may want to make a pair.

Here's what you'll need to get started making your own comic book heels!

• A cute pair of sassy pumps
• A comic book
• Craft glue
• Scissors
• A small paint brush
• Clear acrylic spray

1. Pick out a pair of killer pumps! Choose any style of shoe you like, but make sure you stick to plastic or leather. Glue doesn't stick to fabric easily and the comic book clippings won't lay perfectly flat on a woven surface.
2. Decide on a comic book to use. I chose a crappy one that was 25¢ at the used book store because I didn't want to destroy a really good one, but don't feel bound by MY constraints! Try using one with your favorite superhero, one with lots of great action shots and KAPOWs, or just one with an art style you love.
3. Get some crafting glue and clear acrylic spray. I used Mod Podge (about $6-9) and Aervoe Clear Acrylic (about $5-8), but get whatever brands you prefer. Clear acrylic comes in different finishes, so choose a glossy or flat finish according to how shiny you want your finished product to look.
4. Once you've got your materials together, identify pictures from the comic book you want to use on your heels and clip them out. You can lay out the entire shoe design before you start gluing or clip and glue as you go (I did the latter).
5. Use a small paint brush to brush a thin layer of craft glue on the back of each clipping. Don't use too much glue or the clipping may wrinkle when you set it in place, but be sure the entire back is covered evenly.
6. Press the glue-covered clipping firmly in place on your shoe. Be sure the corners of the clipping aren't sticking up. Keep going until both shoes are fully covered in comic book clippings.
7. Allow the glue to dry over night.
8. Stuff your shoes with tissue paper or newspaper to prevent the clear acrylic from getting on the inside.
9. Find a well-ventilated area to spray down your shoes with clear acrylic. I opened the garage door and sprayed mine in the garage. Make sure you wear a paint mask or other form of breathing protection to keep from inhaling any acrylic. Use 2-4 coats of acrylic spray, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next (see the instructions on your particular brand of spray for more detailed directions).
10. Strut your stuff and show off those pumps, girl!

The clear acrylic spray should do a pretty good job of sealing and protecting the shoes, but it's best not to get them wet, just in case! Please consider leaving them in your closet on rainy days!

This project is great for other kinds of shoes as well. Consider making comic book flats, boots, etc, if you prefer other styles over high heels. Magazines and other printed materials work great too if you're not a comic book fan. Be creative!

Good luck making your heels!