Comments on: Old flip-flops + bath towel = spa slippers

By: Fashion Books

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:24:54 +0000

Really great way to re purpose an old towel and flip-flop in a fun and useful way.

By: RobinM

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:01:48 +0000

I think these are great! And the fact that you have had them for more than two years AND have washed them AND they are still going strong makes them worth the cost of both time and money. I would like to ask those who are grumbling about the cost and time–do you knit? If you do, do you make sweaters, blankets or other large items? What yarn to you use? Even at say $3 a skein, if a blanket calls for 10 skeins you have $30 into the blanket and you haven’t even cast on yet–how many hours go into said blanket? The whole idea behind this recycled slipper is to use what you have, or what is inexpensive–no the stitching wasn’t inexpensive, but it WAS done LOCALLY. Not in another town, not in another country.I think showing us this great slipper and telling us up front everything that went into making it was brilliant–we don’t have to make it, but I think we should acknowledge the ingenuity and creativity in creating something that lasts and is lovely too.

By: Lisa

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:02:29 +0000

Monica, GREAT JOB!! I just found your site today and am enjoying many of your projects that I too will be making. As for the sewing of these slippers on the 6 layers, get yourself an older sewing machine that is all metal!!! Use a needle for sewing denim!! Go slow and it will work. I have all the supplies on hand to make these including the faux leather and quilt batting. I make quilts all the time. I have an old Kenmore sewing machine I bought in 1985..it’s all metal. I also have an old Singer metal machine from 1905..both will sew through the thickness with no problem. Both have a high shank which is the length/height between the plate and the presser foot of the machine.

If I did not have these machines, I would still make these but I would use a leather hand sewing needle with a carpet thread to hand sew them…just a thought for when yours do wear out and you need a new pair.

By: phyllis

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:46:28 +0000

I have a suggestion; I think a serger will handle the seam; may be a bit tricky but if you go slow, I believe it can be done. my serger sews several layers.

Hope this helps you.

Pgh. Phyl

By: Cai

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 20:58:37 +0000

I love to make shoes and slippers. Just the recycling of flip flops intrigues me. However, if it indeed takes 12 hours to make these, they would be too costly, as I estimate my crafted costs at materials+ labor at $10/ hour. These are some mighty expensive slippers.

By: Pam

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:09:40 +0000

Great Idea! I LOVE the slippers and will be making several pairs for various family members, some with a back added for warmth and maybe some embroidery work on the top of my foot for mine. My older machine, a Singer 401, has no problem with 6 thick layers. My Viking embroidery machine couldn’t handle the thickness but a lot of the older machines are work horses that as long as you use a heavy gauge needle and go slow over the intersections where there is a build up of layers, then they do fine. The caution of your unexpected expense was important but I think some people may be giving up too easily, especially for slippers that you have now worn almost 3 years with multiple washings. Your $28 investment was worth it. Maybe next time also check with your friends who may have a machine that could handle the thickness, and make a trade of services. I think the most important decision was the choice of flip flop that you began with, as yours had the molded foot for added comfort. Good choice! Again I love the idea and thank you for putting out there for us.

By: monica

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 23:29:34 +0000

sewbusy – Just put my slippers through my washer and dryer. Came out great. Still no fraying—and no problem with the faux leather.