DIY: Studded Loafers

I don't know about you guys, but I love loafers for fall. I feel like loafers have a bit more personality than ballet flats (which I still love, don't get me wrong), and they are perfect for the in-between weather where it's too warm for boots, but too cool for sandals.

Last year I bought this pair of plain black loafers by Steve Madden because they are the classic loafer shape, good quality and I figured black was a good color I could get a lot of use out of dipping my toe into the loafer pond for the first time. This pair isn't on the website anymore, but you can find loafers everywhere now, and of course, you don't have to stick with black, you can glam up any color or pattern that you like!

The problem I found with them was that they were too plain and I like masculine-looking pieces but I wasn't finding myself wearing them. They needed some jazzing up and I knew studs were the way to go. This is also a great alternative to buying a pair that are already studded because depending on where you get them, they might be much more expensive if they come studded.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

What you'll need: 

        1. Studs- I chose silver pyramid studs; Make sure you get the ones with the prongs to make sure they stay in place. I got mine from Hot Topic, but you can google or go on ebay and find them for pretty inexpensive.
        
        2. Pliers- I started out with this pair of jewelry pliers, but ended up switching to a pair that were flat on the end, instead of pointed- you'll see later!

 Step 2: Play around with different patterns

Before I began this project, I googled studded loafers to see how the studs were arranged on loafers that you can buy already studded.

Step 3: Once a design is chosen, push the prongs through the material

The material is probably going to be pretty thick, so just be careful that you don't rip anything and watch your fingers!

    It's going to look something like this at this stage.

Step 4: Use pliers to pull the prongs through

Once you have pushed the stud through as much as you can, take the pliers and pull the prongs as far through to the other side as possible. This is going to ensure that the stud is secure and that nothing will be able to get in-between it and the shoe to pull it out.

Step 5: Push the prongs down with pliers


This is when having a pair of pliers that are more flat on the end will come in handy. All you need to do is clamp down on the prongs and push them as flush to the material as you can so you avoid any of them scratching you when you walk (trust me, I speak from experience).

Step 6: Repeat with all studs 

until your pattern is complete!

And we're finished!
All you have left to do is style them! 

I chose a very simple design, if you can even call it that. I just wanted a little something extra on there to embellish them a bit and add some character, and this did the job perfectly. There are so many different colors and styles of studs and designs you could choose from, the possibilities are endless! And you don't have to stick to loafers, or shoes in general. You could embellish a purse, sweater, belt, anything! Let me know what you guys think and if you've ever done this!