A close-up photograph capturing a vibrant pair of Nike Air Force 1 shoes, adorned with intricate brush strokes and layers of acrylic paint, showcasing a unique and personalized design.

What Paint To Use On Air Force 1 Shoes: A Complete Guide

ByHulya Aksu Updated on

If you own a pair of the iconic Nike Air Force 1 shoes, you know they deserve special treatment. These timeless sneakers have been around since 1982 and remain one of Nike’s most popular styles. Their clean, classic white leather look is perfect for customization and personalization.

If you want to give your AF1s a makeover with a fresh coat of paint, choosing the right paint is crucial for getting professional-looking results. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll recommend the best paints for customizing Air Force 1s, along with pro tips for prepping, painting, and sealing your kicks.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Use angelus leather paint or acrylic paint mixed with a fabric medium and seal it with an acrylic finisher.

Prep the Shoes

Clean the Surface

Before applying any paint to your Air Force 1 shoes, it is crucial to clean the surface thoroughly. This step ensures that the paint adheres properly and results in a smooth and long-lasting finish. Use a mild soap or sneaker cleaner and a soft brush to gently scrub away any dirt, stains, or debris.

Rinse the shoes with water and allow them to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Sand Away Shine

To achieve the best results when painting your Air Force 1 shoes, it is recommended to sand away the shiny finish on the surface. This step helps the paint adhere better and prevents it from cracking or peeling over time.

Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block to gently roughen up the surface of the shoes. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as you don’t want to damage the material. After sanding, wipe away any dust with a clean cloth.

Remove Laces and Inserts

Before you start painting, it’s essential to remove the laces and any inserts from your Air Force 1 shoes. This step allows you to have better access to the entire surface of the shoes and ensures that you don’t get any paint on the laces or inserts.

Simply untie the laces and pull them out of the shoes. If there are any removable inserts, take them out as well. This will make the painting process much easier and give you a more professional-looking result.

By following these steps to prep your Air Force 1 shoes before painting, you will set yourself up for success and achieve a high-quality finish. Remember to take your time and be patient throughout the process, as attention to detail is key. Happy painting!

Pick the Right Paint

When it comes to painting your Air Force 1 shoes, choosing the right paint is crucial to achieving a professional and long-lasting finish. There are several options available, each with its own unique qualities and application methods.

Here are some of the most popular paint choices for customizing your Air Force 1s:

Angelus Leather Paint

Angelus Leather Paint is a go-to choice for many sneaker artists and enthusiasts. It is specially formulated for use on leather and provides excellent coverage and durability. The paint is flexible, allowing it to move with the material without cracking or peeling.

Angelus Leather Paint comes in a wide range of vibrant colors and can be mixed to create custom shades. It is also water-based, making it easy to clean up and work with. You can find Angelus Leather Paint at various online retailers and art supply stores.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is another popular option for painting Air Force 1s. It is versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including leather. Acrylic paint dries quickly and provides a smooth, opaque finish.

However, it is important to note that acrylic paint may not be as durable as specialized leather paint like Angelus. To ensure longevity, it is recommended to apply a protective topcoat or finish to seal the paint. Acrylic paint is widely available at craft stores and online retailers.

Other Paint Options

While Angelus Leather Paint and acrylic paint are the most commonly used options, there are other paint choices worth considering. Some artists prefer using fabric paint, which is designed for use on textiles and can adhere well to leather.

Additionally, there are specific sneaker paints available in the market, such as SNEAKERS ER, which are formulated to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. It’s important to do your research and read reviews to find the best paint option for your specific needs.

Remember, before applying any paint to your Air Force 1s, it’s important to properly clean and prep the surface to ensure proper adhesion. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and oils, and gently buff the leather to create a smooth surface for painting.

Taking these extra steps will help ensure a professional-looking finish that will last.

Painting Tips and Techniques

Work in Thin Layers

When it comes to painting Air Force 1 shoes, working in thin layers is crucial. Applying thick layers of paint can result in a clumpy and uneven finish. Instead, use a small brush or sponge applicator to apply thin coats of paint.

This allows for better control and ensures that the paint adheres properly to the surface of the shoes.

Thin layers of paint also prevent the shoes from becoming stiff or cracking once the paint dries. Additionally, it allows for easier touch-ups and corrections if any mistakes are made during the painting process.

Use Painter’s Tape

Painter’s tape is an essential tool for achieving clean and precise lines when painting Air Force 1 shoes. Before you start painting, use painter’s tape to mask off any areas that you don’t want to be painted. This could include the soles, laces, or specific design elements on the shoes.

By using painter’s tape, you can create sharp edges and prevent any unwanted paint from seeping into other areas of the shoe. This technique helps to maintain a professional and polished look for your painted Air Force 1 shoes.

Let Layers Dry Fully

Allowing each layer of paint to dry fully is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and durable finish on Air Force 1 shoes. Rushing the drying process can lead to smudging or smearing of the paint, ruining all your hard work.

It is recommended to let each layer of paint dry for at least 2-3 hours before applying the next layer. If you are using different colors, make sure to give each color enough time to dry before moving on to the next one.

This patience will ensure that your painted Air Force 1 shoes look their best and maintain their quality over time.

For more detailed painting tips and techniques, you can visit websites like Angelus Direct or The Custom Movement, where you can find step-by-step tutorials and expert advice from experienced shoe painters.

Seal and Protect the Paint

Once you have completed painting your Air Force 1 shoes, it is important to seal and protect the paint to ensure its longevity and durability. There are a few steps you can take to achieve this.

Apply Acrylic Finisher

One of the best ways to seal and protect the paint on your Air Force 1 shoes is to apply an acrylic finisher. This will create a protective barrier over the paint, preventing it from chipping, cracking, or fading.

Acrylic finishers are readily available at most craft stores and can be applied using a brush or sponge. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and drying time.

By using an acrylic finisher, you can ensure that your painted design on the Air Force 1 shoes remains intact and vibrant for a longer period of time. This will also make it easier to clean the shoes without worrying about damaging the paint.

Avoid Wear for 24 Hours

After applying the acrylic finisher, it is important to allow the shoes to fully dry and cure. This typically takes around 24 hours, but it is best to consult the instructions provided with the finisher you used.

During this time, it is crucial to avoid wearing the shoes or exposing them to any harsh conditions that could damage the paint.

While it may be tempting to wear your newly painted Air Force 1 shoes right away, allowing them to cure properly will ensure that the paint adheres to the surface of the shoes and remains intact for a longer period of time. This extra step will help protect your hard work and investment.

Remember, properly sealing and protecting the paint on your Air Force 1 shoes is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. By following these steps and utilizing an acrylic finisher, you can enjoy your custom-designed shoes for years to come.

Maintain Your Custom AF1s

After investing time and effort into creating your custom Air Force 1 shoes, you’ll want to make sure they stay in great condition. Proper maintenance is key to preserving the vibrant colors and unique designs. Here are a few tips to help you keep your custom AF1s looking fresh for longer:

Spot Clean Gently

Accidents happen, and your custom AF1s may occasionally get dirty or stained. When this occurs, it’s important to spot clean them gently to avoid damaging the paint or materials. Start by using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm water and a mild detergent.

Gently scrub the affected area in a circular motion, being careful not to rub too aggressively. Rinse the cloth or sponge and repeat until the stain is removed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can cause the paint to fade or chip.

Use Leather Conditioner

Air Force 1 shoes are known for their quality leather uppers, so it’s essential to keep them moisturized and supple. Leather conditioner not only helps to maintain the integrity of the leather but also protects it from cracking or drying out.

Apply a small amount of leather conditioner onto a clean cloth and gently rub it into the leather, paying extra attention to any areas that may be prone to creasing or wear. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a dry cloth.

Regular conditioning will help your custom AF1s stay soft and looking their best.

Touch Up Paint as Needed

Over time, the paint on your custom AF1s may start to wear off or chip in certain areas. To keep them looking fresh, it’s a good idea to touch up the paint as needed. Start by cleaning the affected area with a mild soap and water mixture, then allow it to dry completely.

Use a small brush or fine-tipped applicator to carefully apply the matching paint to the areas that need touch-up. Allow the paint to dry for the recommended time before wearing your shoes again. This simple step can help extend the lifespan of your custom AF1s and keep them looking great.

Remember, proper maintenance is key to preserving the appearance of your custom AF1s. By spot cleaning gently, using leather conditioner regularly, and touching up the paint as needed, you can ensure that your unique creations continue to turn heads and make a statement for years to come.

Conclusion

Customizing your Air Force 1s with paint allows you to put your personal stamp on these iconic kicks. With the right prep work, paints, and sealing, you can give your AF1s a makeover they’ll be proud of.

Just be sure to use thin layers of leather paint or textile acrylics, seal the paint properly, and care for your shoes gently afterwards. With a professional paint job and some TLC, your customized Air Force 1s will look fresh for many wears to come.

So grab some painter’s tape and angelus paints, and let your creativity run wild!

Hulya Aksu is the founder and editor-in-chief of Posh Seven Magazine, the leading lifestyle publication serving the affluent suburbs of Washington D.C. Born in Istanbul, Turkey, Hulya moved to the United States to pursue her passion for fashion. She worked for major fashion houses before recognizing a need for a magazine that spoke to successful women in D.C.'s prestigious neighborhoods.

In 2007, Hulya launched Posh Seven Magazine from her home while on maternity leave. The magazine quickly gained an avid following for its insider's perspective on upscale living in communities like McLean, Potomac, and Bethesda.

Over the past 15 years, Hulya has built Posh Seven into a multimedia brand with print, digital, social media, and experiential components. Her visionary leadership and hyper-local approach has made Posh Seven a go-to resource for over 100,000 readers.

As founder and editor-in-chief, Hulya lends the magazine her impeccable taste and insights into luxury living. She resides with her family in Ashburn, Virginia where the Posh Seven headquarters are located. Hulya is deeply committed to serving the vibrant community of successful women who call D.C.'s affluent suburbs home.

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