Introduction
Learn how to paint custom sneakers with artist, Enzo H. Kim in this easy-to-follow tutorial! Using Angelus leather paint and tools, Enzo shares his expert tips for prepping, applying thin layers, and sealing your design for a long-lasting finish. Perfect for beginners and sneaker artists alike, this custom shoe painting guide has all the essentials.
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Enzo H. Kim
Yo! My name is Enzo, born & raised in Los Angeles, California, now living in Portland, Oregon. I got into sneakers through playing basketball, and soon picked up customizing sneakers because of it. Received a ton of support for my work from friends, family & followers, which I’m so grateful for. I studied product design in college, which directed me to a path in footwear color design! Now, I design colorways while I continue painting sneakers. Being able to help people feel awesome through their kicks is one of my greatest joys!
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How to Paint and Customize Fabric Shoes: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep the Surface
Goal: Remove dirt, oils, and factory finishes so your paint can properly bond.
- Use Angelus Easy Cleaner with a soft brush or cloth. Scrub gently but thoroughly, especially around seams and textured areas.
- If the fabric has any kind of synthetic coating or glossy finish, lightly scuff it with fine sandpaper or a nail buffer.
- Let the surface fully dry before moving to the next step.
Pro Tip: Avoid saturating the fabric, use a damp cloth instead and gently wipe around the areas.

Goal: Remove dirt, oils, and factory finishes so your paint can properly bond.
- Use Angelus Easy Cleaner with a soft brush or cloth. Scrub gently but thoroughly, especially around seams and textured areas.
- If the fabric has any kind of synthetic coating or glossy finish, lightly scuff it with fine sandpaper or a nail buffer.
- Let the surface fully dry before moving to the next step.
Pro Tip: Avoid saturating the fabric, use a damp cloth instead and gently wipe around the areas.

Step 2: Paint or Airbrush with 2-Soft
Goal: Keep the fabric soft and flexible after painting.
- Mix Angelus 2-Soft Fabric Medium with Angelus Acrylic Leather Paint in a 1:1 ratio.
- Apply thin, even coats using a brush or airbrush.
- Heat set with a heat gun or hair dryer once dry to the touch.
Pro Tip: You must heat-set each layer that contains 2-Soft before applying more coats of paint. Use either a heat gun or hair dryer to set up.

Step 3: Let Paint Dry
Patience is key! Allow each layer to dry fully before adding the next. This will help prevent any streaking or smudging and give you that buttery smooth finish.

Step 4: (OPTIONAL) Apply Finisher
***This step is optional***
Once your final coat is completely dry, seal the painted leather with Angelus 4-Coat or Acrylic Finisher. This step adds durability and protects your couch from wear and tear. Choose between matte, satin, or gloss depending on your desired finish.





Creator Questions
I'm based in Portland, Oregon.
I found out about Angelus products through YouTube tutorials.
I use Angelus products for customizing & cleaning sneakers.
My top 5 Angelus products are: Gamma Blue Paint, High Gloss 4-Coat, Brush Cleaner, 2-Thick, Paintable Repair Filler.
Don’t get caught up so much on “perfecting” your craft! Learn from your experiences, and your next piece will be even better.
🛒 Enzo's Top 5 Angelus Products

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95

Collector Edition Gamma Blue
$6.95

High Gloss 4-Coat
$6.95

Angelus Brush Cleaner
$8.95

2-Thick Paint Thickener
$3.95

Paintable Repair Filler
$10.95
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