Creating a Shoe Lover!

There are many things in their lifetime that I hope to pass on to my children: compassion for humanity, a strong work ethic, the ability to love whole heartedly and, the unbridled appreciation for fabulous shoes. As they say, "Every journey starts with the first step.", and

thanks to the Stardust Shoes' Cloth Shoe Pattern my daughter Clover's pathway to ped perfection has officially begun! Join me wont' you, as I pay crafty homage to mother-daughter shoe goodness. Steve Madden, can you hear me?

Golden Delicious

All that glitters isn't gold; that is unless you're rockin' some flaxen footwear! Inspired by one of my favorite pairs of strappy heels, this first set of baby shoes are my masterpiece...my shoesterpiece as it were. ;-) Pretty much scrapping the pattern for this pair, I free-styled; ditching the called-for interfacing, opting for thicker fabric (a gold vinyl outer & vintage, upholstery lining), changing the construction of the elastic channel, and weaving, top-sewn fabric strips for the toe (I used a few dabs of Liquid Fusion to keep 'em in place).

Silver City Slicker

If you ask me, metallics are the new neutral. Every gal-on-the-go can use a nice pair of glam flats. They'll turn any daily basic outfit into a fashion, forward statement. So mama, add a little twinkle to baby's toes by making her (or him, for those hipster dude babes out there) some silver slippers! This pair was made using the base Stardust pattern (altered to fit my daughters long & narrow feet), silver pleather and Amy Butler fabric lining.

The Cat's Meow

Leopard print is a timeless classic and in my opinion, a must-have in a woman's wardrobe. They funk up a pair of jeans, chic up a business suit, or add a little vintage flair to a party dress. You know how some people never travel without their American Express cards? I never travel without my leopard stilettos. I wore a pair frequently when I hosted Knitty Gritty; sometimes propping my feet in such a way that they were sure to be in the shot. I often make it my mission to get my beloved shoes on camera whenever I'm working (watch the 1st video in the post below this one, for proof) because ladies, if I'm going to precariously balance on 4 inch heels at the crack of dawn, then you can bet those beauties are gonna be seen! But I digress.

The companion booties to my leopard lovelies are made out of a unisex, bronze fabric, lined with green felt and animal print, and embellished with a machine-sewn, star applique. Can you say, Yo Fabba Fabba?!

Orange You Glad I Love Shoes?

It may be hip to be square, but it's HOT to be heart! These shoes are silly, which makes me love them all the more--they're also the perfect big-sisters to the wee wearables I made! The petite pair is constructed out of quilted, orange fabric and white vinyl, then topped off with a metallic & white heart which I attached with Liquid Fusion.

Have you made (sewn, knit or crocheted) baby shoes before? Post links to pictures here--I want to wallow in some more couture cuteness!

Craft.Rock.Love,

Vickie

Vickie Howell is a mother, designer, writer and crafty spokesperson.  Her latest book Awareknits: Knit & Crochet Projects for the Eco-Conscious Stitcher is on sale now.  For more info go to: VickieHowell.com