Fixin' Flip Flops (and Other Shoes)

Sometimes it hardly feels worth it to fix an old pair of shoes, especially flip-flops, which are pretty cheap. But what if you really like that pair of shoes and they're basically in good shape? This instructable will show you how to reattach a separated sole quickly, easily and cheaply.

The best adhesive for this repair is a good contact adhesive like Barge Cement or Shoe Goo. A tube costs $6 - $12 and will last for many repairs.

Other than that and your broken shoe, you'll need:

newspaper to cover your work space

toothpicks

a rag

a scrap piece of card stock (junk mail works fine)

Using a damp rag, clean the area you will be gluing the best you can.

Allow to dry fully.

Squeeze out glue on both pieces to be joined, BUT DON'T LET THEM TOUCH! Get as far back as you can.

Using the card stock and/or the toothpicks, spread the glue. Cover as evenly as possible. Use toothpicks to prop the pieces apart and keep them from touching.

Fill in any missed spots and wait for the glue to dry completely. Keep the pieces apart!

Starting where the pieces are still attached, begin pressing the pieces together. Go slowly and keep pressing until you get to the last of the open end.

The pieces now have a permanent bond.

Press very firmly and make sure all the glued areas touch. I put my shoes on and stepped on them.

Clean up excess cement by rolling your fingers along the extra glue. It will be dry and stick to itself.

The repair is done! It is waterproof and permanent. Easy, right?!