https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/button-boots • Posted by Quadrille
Printing with buttons gives a quirky alternative to a polka dot print. One colour makes them more sophisticated, but more colours = more fun!
Printing with buttons gives a quirky alternative to a polka dot print. One colour makes them more sophisticated, but more colours = more fun!
Make two rough semicircles from the cardboard to place inside the toes of your shoes. This gives a firmer base to print onto. Also stick some tape around the rubber edge and remove any shoe laces.
Choose a variety of buttons in different shapes and sizes. The buttons that work best are ones that have a very flat side and no indentations or ridges. If they are shiny, give them a light rub with sandpaper on the flat side to help the ink adhere better.
Mix up a grey ink on the glass plate and roll it out to a fine consistency.
The best way to get firm and even pressure on the button is to stick it directly to your index finger using double-sided tape.
Roll the ink onto the button and begin printing. To get a good print, use your index finger and thumb in a pinching action with the boot fabric inbetween, pressing the fabric onto the button. Swap buttons occasionally so you get an attractive random pattern.
Roll out some orange ink and print a few buttons to add colour. Leave to dry overnight.