When it comes to painting your sneakers, there are a few important steps that should not be overlooked. One of these crucial steps is deglazing your sneakers before applying any paint. In this blog post, we will explore why deglazing is necessary and how it can greatly improve the outcome of your sneaker customisation project.
What is deglazing and why is it important?
Deglazing is the process of removing the factory finish or any existing coatings from your sneakers. This step is essential because it creates a clean and smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. By removing the factory finish, you are ensuring that the paint will properly bond with the sneaker material, resulting in a longer-lasting and more professional-looking custom design.
How to deglaze your sneakers
Before you begin the deglazing process, gather the necessary materials: a deglazing solution, cotton balls or a soft cloth, and gloves for protection.
1. Start by putting on the gloves to protect your hands from the deglazing solution.
2. Dip a cotton ball or a soft cloth into the deglazing solution (see list below)
3. Gently rub the cotton ball or cloth over the surface of the sneakers in small circular motions. Make sure to cover the entire area that you plan to paint.
4. Continue rubbing until you see the factory finish or existing coatings start to come off. You may need to use multiple cotton balls or cloths depending on the size of the sneakers.
5. Once the deglazing is complete, allow the sneakers to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
The benefits of deglazing
Deglazing your sneakers offers several benefits that can greatly enhance your custom sneaker painting experience:
1. Improved paint adhesion: By removing the factory finish, the paint has a better chance of adhering to the sneaker material, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting custom design.
2. Smoother finish: Deglazing helps create a smooth surface, allowing the paint to glide on more evenly and reducing the chances of brush strokes or uneven application.
3. Increased customisation options: Removing the factory finish opens up a world of possibilities for your custom design. You can experiment with different colors, patterns, and techniques without any limitations.
List of Deglazers
We have several products available at Mollies that will help you on the way:Â
- Angelus Preparer & Deglazer For leather
- Tedd's Acetone Deglazer For leather, synthetics, vinyl
- Tedd's Leather Stripper For leather
- Tedd's Cleaner Preparer For synthetics
Deglazing your sneakers before painting is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. It provides a clean canvas for your custom design, improves paint adhesion, and allows for a smoother and more professional-looking finish. So, the next time you embark on a sneaker customization project, make sure to take the time to deglaze your sneakers for the best possible outcome.
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