DIY Studded Shoes: Turn Any Pair Into a Custom Statement

Plain sneakers? Boring boots? Let's fix that. Adding studs to shoes is one of the coolest, easiest DIY projects you can do - and the results look like designer-level customs that cost 10x what you'll spend.

In this guide, we'll show you exactly how to stud shoes step by step, which studs work on which shoe types, and where to place them for maximum impact.

What Shoes Work Best for Studding?

Not all shoes are created equal when it comes to DIY customization. Here's what works:

• Canvas sneakers (Converse, Vans, etc.) - The #1 best shoe for beginners. Canvas is soft enough for prong-back studs to push through easily.
• Leather boots - Combat boots, ankle boots, and platform boots all look incredible with cone spikes. Use screw-back studs and a hole punch.
• Faux leather flats - Great for a subtle, edgy accent. Use small pyramid studs on the heel or strap.
• Platform shoes - The thick sole area gives you space for larger, bolder studs.

Avoid: Mesh/knit shoes (too stretchy), athletic shoes with foam padding (studs won't hold), and anything you need to return.

What You'll Need

• Small studs - 5mm–8mm pyramid studs for canvas, or screw-back spikes for leather.
• Needle-nose pliers - For bending prong-back studs.
• Leather awl or hole punch - Only needed for leather shoes.
• Chalk or removable marker - For planning placement.
• A piece of cardboard - Slide inside the shoe to give you a firm surface to push against.

Best Placement Areas

The key to great-looking studded shoes is placement. Here are the most popular spots:

• Toe cap - A row of studs along the rubber-meets-canvas line. Classic and clean.
• Heel counter - The back panel of the shoe. Studs here catch the light when you walk.
• Tongue - A vertical line or scattered cluster on the shoe tongue. Visible when laced up.
• Side panels - Line the outer edge with a row of studs for a structured look.
• Around the sole line - Studs all the way around where the upper meets the sole. Bold statement.
• Ankle strap (boots) - Perfect for cone spikes. Creates an aggressive, designer look.

Step-by-Step: Studding Canvas Sneakers

1. Remove the laces - Gives you full access to the tongue and eyelets.
2. Slide cardboard inside - This protects the inside lining and gives you a firm surface.
3. Plan your design - Use chalk to mark where each stud goes. Start with a simple row along the toe cap or heel.
4. Push studs through - Place the stud face-down, press the canvas onto the prongs. The cardboard inside catches the prongs.
5. Bend prongs - Use pliers to bend each prong inward and flat against the inside canvas.
6. Check comfort - Put your hand inside the shoe. If any prongs are poking up, flatten them more or cover with a small piece of fabric glued over the inside.

Step-by-Step: Studding Leather Boots

1. Mark your design - Use chalk on the leather. Symmetry matters on boots - measure both sides.
2. Punch holes - Use an awl or leather hole punch at each mark. Make holes just slightly smaller than the spike post.
3. Insert spikes - Push screw-back spike posts through from the outside.
4. Attach backing - Screw the disc backing on from the inside. Hand-tighten firmly.
5. Check both boots - Make sure the designs match. Step back and look at them side by side.

Tips for Better Results

• Start with an old pair - Practice on shoes you don't mind experimenting with before touching your favorites.
• Use smaller studs - Large, heavy studs can make shoes uncomfortable and affect how they flex. Stick to 5mm–8mm for most shoes.
• Avoid flex zones - Don't stud the area where your foot bends when you walk (the ball of the foot). The studs will loosen with repeated flexing.
• Seal the inside - Use a strip of moleskin or fabric tape over prong tips inside the shoe for comfort.
• Don't machine wash - Spot clean studded shoes. Machine washing will beat up the studs and loosen adhesive-backed ones.

Related Guides

• How to Put Studs on Any Clothing
• Studded Bag DIY
• Pyramid Studs vs Cone Spikes