Paint It Yourself: How to Add Art to Your Canvas Shoe

Some people wear their hearts on their sleeves. Others paint theirs on their shoes.
If you’ve ever looked at a pair of plain canvas kicks and thought, I could do something with that, you're probably right. Painting your own shoes isn’t just for professionals. With a few basics and a little intention, you can turn a plain pair into something completely personal.

Here’s how to do it without ruining them in the process.

1. Start with the Right Shoes

Canvas shoes are the best base for paint. Natural fibers like cotton absorb color better and hold up longer. Avoid shoes with too much stretch or synthetic materials. If you're working with a pair from WildSage, you’re already on the right track.

2. Keep Your Supply List Simple

You don’t need fancy tools. Just grab:

• Fabric or acrylic paint that’s flexible and made for textiles

• A couple of brushes in different sizes

• Painter’s tape for edges and blocking off areas

• A pencil or washable fabric marker to sketch your design

• An optional fabric-safe sealant to protect your work

Skip permanent markers like Sharpies. They bleed and fade fast. Paint holds up better.

3. Think Before You Paint

You don’t have to draw a masterpiece. Start with something graphic and simple. Checkerboards. Stars. Flames. Waves. Handwritten words or repeating shapes look great, even if you're not “artistic.”
Sketch it out first, either lightly on the shoe or on paper. A little planning goes a long way.

And if you mess up? That’s part of the charm. These aren’t factory shoes. They’re yours.

4. Build It in Layers

Don’t slap the paint on all at once. Use light, even coats and let them dry between passes. Paint light colors first, then add the darker ones. This helps avoid bleeding, cracking, or peeling later.

Take your time. Rushed work looks rushed.

5. Protect What You Made

Once your design is dry, you can seal it with a spray or brush-on finisher. Matte sealants keep the look natural. Glossy ones give it more shine. Either way, it adds durability and helps the paint last through weather and wear.

You don’t have to seal them, but it helps if you plan to wear them often.

6. Wear Them Like You Meant It

Once they’re done, build an outfit around them or wear them with your comfiest tee. There’s no wrong move. You made them. You own them.

They don’t need to be perfect. They just need to be yours.