Altered Shoes – Craft Gossip

I’ve been seeing altered shoes around recently including from a woman here in Oakland who does not have a web site apparently. How can that be? websites are pretty much free at this point.

Hippy of Doom on Etsy has some nice altered shoes. I love these hummingbird shoes.

There is also an entire book about altering shoes and I bet it has great tips on the kinds of paint to use, etc. The book is called Altered Shoes: A Step-By-Step Guide To Making Your Footwear Fabulous and was written by Marty Stevens-Heebner. Marty looks very interesting and is, I think, the creator if ReBagz, a line of handbags made from upcycled materials. you can read about them here.

I’m shocked that there is not an altered shoes flickr group! I have a few altered shoes stories from recently myself, although, does it count if the altering was done my my most excellent local cobbler?

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If you’re passionate about upcycled home decor, eco-friendly crafts, or simply love giving old items a new life, Upcycle: 24 Sustainable DIY Projects to Turn Everyday Objects into Home Decor is a book that’s sure to spark your creativity.

This beautifully designed book is a treasure trove of clever ideas for turning the mundane into the magical. From old T-shirts and tin cans to wooden crates and glass bottles, Upcycle offers 24 hands-on projects that are equal parts stylish and sustainable. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting your upcycling journey, the instructions are clear, accessible, and often surprisingly simple.

What I love most is that each project doesn’t feel like a “craft”—it feels like decor you’d proudly display in any modern home. Think chic recycled storage solutions, creative lighting with a handmade twist, and even repurposed wall art that doesn’t scream DIY. The photography is gorgeous, making this book just as inspiring as it is instructional.

It’s a great resource for zero-waste living, creative reuse, and recycled crafts for the home—perfect for crafters who want to make a positive environmental impact without sacrificing style. Plus, most of the materials can be found right at home or sourced for free, making it a budget-friendly way to refresh your space.

If you’ve ever looked at an empty jar or an old ladder and thought, “What could I make with this?”—this book will give you the answers.

Upcycle is perfect for anyone looking to reduce waste while creating beautiful, functional items. It’s ideal for eco-conscious decorators, DIY enthusiasts, and creative souls who love a good before-and-after. If you’re on the hunt for inspiring sustainable crafting projects, this book is definitely worth a spot on your shelf (or coffee table!).

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Have you read?