How to Resole Your Footwear: 11 Steps
Step 1: Gather the necessary materials
Before starting the resoling process, gather the following items: replacement soles, a utility knife or razor blade, shoe cement or glue, pliers, sandpaper, masking tape, and a brush.
Step 2: Remove the old soles
Using the utility knife or razor blade, carefully remove the old soles of your footwear. Start at the heel and work your way around the sides of each shoe to detach it from the upper. Ensure that you do not puncture or damage the upper part of your footwear.
Step 3: Clean and prep the shoes
Once the old soles have been removed, use a brush to clean any debris off your footwear. Then, use sandpaper to rough up both the bottom of your shoes and the new replacement soles. This will help create better adhesion when applying glue.
Step 4: Mark and cut the new soles
Place one shoe on top of a new sole and use masking tape to outline its shape. Cut along this line with a sharp utility knife to create a perfect fit for each shoe.
Step 5: Apply adhesive to both surfaces
Apply a thin layer of shoe cement or glue to both the new sole and bottom edge of your shoes. Be sure to cover all surfaces evenly.
Step 6: Bonding time
Allow adequate bonding time per the instructions on the adhesive’s package. Typically, this will be between 12-24 hours.
Step 7: Press soles onto shoes
Carefully align and place your shoes onto their respective new soles. Press firmly to ensure proper adhesion.
Step 8: Secure with clamps or rubber bands
Keep everything in place with clamps or rubber bands while waiting for the glue to cure fully. You can also wrap them in cellophane or heavy-duty plastic to prevent the glue from drying too quickly.
Step 9: Cure time
Let the shoes and soles cure for approximately 24-48 hours, or as recommended by your adhesive manufacturer, to ensure a strong bond.
Step 10: Remove clamps or rubber bands
Once the curing time has passed, remove clamps or rubber bands and check that everything is secure.
Step 11: Trim excess material and finish
Use a sharp utility knife to trim any excess material around the edges of your shoes. Then, buff the edges with fine sandpaper for a finished look.
Following these steps will provide a new life to your worn-out footwear, saving you money and extending their usability. Happy resoling!