Art of Custom Sneakers

Create your own one-of-a-kind kicks with painting, drawing, stenciling, and marbleizing techniques from celebrated sneaker customizer Xavier Kickz (aka Xavier Crews).

*Winner of the 2023 Silver Foreword INDIE Book Award*

In Art of Custom Sneakers, Xavier shares his innovative ideas and techniques for prepping, designing, and finishing custom sneakers for everyone.

The book begins with the basics—including tools and materials, workspace setup, prep, finishing, and design planning—then moves on to dozens of incredible customizing projects. Whatever your level of artistic experience, Xavier’s in-depth, step-by-step instructions ensure your success as you start making your own custom kicks. Twenty-eight QR codes to supplemental video instruction offer additional step-by-step guidance.

As you go, gather inspiration from amazing custom sneakers throughout history.

Start with any clean sneaker—whether leather Nike Air Force 1s, or canvas Vans or Converse, or bargain shoes similar to any of these—then add your own personal touches with techniques such as:
 

• Cartoon Style
• Paint Pen Camo
• Sharpie Tie-Dye
• Hydro-Dipped Marbleizing
• Galactic Splatter
• Bedazzled Flash

Stop admiring custom sneakers from afar, and start making your own!