In the face of COVID-19, we are all experiencing a time of uncertainty.  While uncertainty can be scary, it does not necessarily have to be negative.  For example, creativity stems from uncertainty.  To be creative means to take risks and try something new.  On that note, I would like to share with you the uncertainty that I took part in today, and that you too can take part in, to show you that in uncertain times, we can still have positive outcomes.

Today, during the boredom of quarantine, I rummaged through my closet and realized how many pairs of shoes are in there that have not seen the light of day in years.  I decided to revamp a pair of these Vans shoes by painting them.  I would like to share this experience with you so that you can try it at home. 

What you need:

• A pair of shoes you do not use anymore, I used Vans Authentic Shoes
• Paint (I usually use acrylic)
• Something to stuff the shoes with (Paper towels, socks, plastic bags, etc.)
• Paintbrushes
• Something to put the paint on (A pallet, paper plate, etc.)
• A cup of water to rinse brushes

For this project, I used a pair of black/black Authentic Vans.  I first created my design in my sketch book.  Once I had all my materials set up, I painted the base shape of my design in white so that the colors would appear brighter.  I then made a base shape of the waves, water, and sky, as you can see here:

After finishing the basic outline, I added more shades of blues to the water and created an outline for the sun.  We want it to resemble our beloved ocean after all!  This will add depth to the beach scene before adding the details like palm trees and flowers.

After this layer of paint dried, I added the beachy details to bring the paintings alive.  I painted a palm tree, a flower, the white where the waves are crashing, and I colored in the sun.  To sharpen up the edges and clean up the design, I outlined the shapes in black to really make my shoes pop.  You can see the final product here:

Quarantine may seem like a never-ending boredom, but it does not have to be! You can try this at home, and we would love for you to share your creativity by tagging us on Instagram or Facebook @CoastalEdge!

If lack of time or materials is holding you back, do not worry.  We have so many styles that are just as fun at coastaledge.com!  The Vans Era Platform 2-Tone Chili Pepper/Fuchsia Pink is my personal favorite:

I hope this idea has helped to spark your creativity!  We are in this together!