Zip Tie Wedge

Here is a fun project to make a very unique shoe out of a 3D print and some zip ties.

Step 1: Print the Base

I found a really beautiful lace shoe model on Thingiverse link from an artist Pasquale Abbattista, who goes by boeing787. We printed this in white PLA at 200 degrees, took about 4 hours per shoe on my printer. The timelapse video was created automatically by the octoprint running on a raspberry pi.

I don't think the print came out perfectly, there are some strings that didn't find their place, but it is a very intricate model, so I was happy with the way it came out.

Step 2: Check the Fit

Once the print was complete I peeled it up off the printer, and checked to make sure it fit.

Step 3: Add ZipTies

For the straps I found some really long zip ties at home depot, I think this gives a normally industrial fastener such an elegant use. The lace holes in the shoes were perfect for threading the zip ties through.

Once the zip ties were adjusted to fit, I trimmed off the excess.

Step 4: Painting

I used a large cardboard box for a "paint booth" and set the shoe on a wooden block so I could rotate it without touching the shoe. When painting plastic with rattle cans I use thin light coats. For this project I just did 2 coats, and they look great.

Step 5: Enjoy Wearing Your New Zip Tie Shoes

wait for the paint to completely dry before you take your new shoes out on the town!