I bought new Docs with the specific intent of painting on them, and tried something new and (gasp) tried to photograph some of the progress.

Step one—Make stencils! I struggle with typography so I found a font I liked and measured the toes of the boots, and cut them out. I also have graphite transfer paper on hand.

Step two— line it up with the transfer paper underneath. If you don’t have any, coat the back of the stencil with a bunch of graphite from an HB or softer pencil.

Step three— trace it with a firm hand. Mechanical pencil is a little better, and press hard, try to keep the stencil from slipping.

Step four— the impressions are faint so you have to be careful! I bought Leather Studio paint and this is my first time trying it; I’ve used regular craft acrylic with good results before.

Step five— paint!! I had to go slowly and draw the lettering as much if not more than write it. I kept the stencil close on hand when the impressions weren’t easy to see.

Other bits I freehanded with a dry brush technique, and they’re still a work in progress.