Polka dot tight obsession going on over here. If you saw my Christmas list, modcloth has these super cute tights
for sale. I couldn’t stop thinking about them. They’re $35, which I totally think is worth it. But I made these for 5 bucks, so umm…definitely worth it!! I’m pretty sure it’s a new closet staple.
You want? Go to Target and pick up some $5 tights. You’ll also need black puffy paint. I made two pairs. The first one failed. I used two strips of cardboard to stretch out the tight legs. Then painted on the polka dot pattern. The funny thing about cardboard is that is stretches the tights differently than they would on your legs. So they looked perfect on the cardboard, but when I took them off, they were all wonky. The dots were everywhere and the pattern was no good.
So, back to Target and take two. This way really works! I did this at night (after my fail) because I couldn’t give up!
First things first, put your tights on! This is hardcore crafting so no wimps allowed! YES, the paint will go through and dot your legs. But it’s non toxic and washable. It’s just kinda cold.
Once your tights are on, move around to get them stretched and situated just right. I like to sit on the floor, but I would recommend sitting on a chair after doing it. It’s hard to get up without smearing the paint!
Start dotting! Apply the puffy paint straight from the bottle. Follow the polka dot pattern as much as you can.
Paint all the way up to your knees (or as high as you please) and let it dry! I used a blow dryer to speed up the process.
Done!
A few tips:
-If you’re using a blow dryer, put it on low heat, it can melt the nylon!
-When you think they are dry, wait a bit longer. The surface might be dry, but it could be wet underneath!
-After you peel the tights off your legs, you’ll be a dalmatian! The easiest way to get off the paint is soak in the tub. Bubble bath!
-Have fun!
I love them!!
I love them too
Kate, I got to go to the Modcloth distribution center and headquarters in Pittsburgh 2 weeks ago with my daughter. It was a college field trip! I just sent her the link to your post. She is a big diy-er. Thanks for sharing!
this has got me giggling picturing you dotting up your legs. I wonder if your hubby is like mine and just walked in and then walked out! SO adorable though!
I LOVE this!!! I think this weekend is a polka dot weekend!! :D
Too funny and w-a-y easy (well, sorta)cute!!
Hilariously AWESOME!!! Love the dalmation part! :) Kate, you are SO CRAFTY!!
Jenny
http://www.seaminglysmitten.blogspot.com
Oh how funny… I actually had to do this when I searched HIGH and LOW for a pair of Mustard Yellow Polka Dot tights… I had to resort to making them myself.. I wore mine as you did but I needed quarter size dots and used one of those Perfect Circle Sponge Brushes…After they dried I had LOVELY Mustard Yellow Dots on my legs.. :) Lovely Job…
love the tutorial! very easy. how do they wash though?
http://mamidani.wordpress.com
Awesome! I love how you thought out of the boxed and made them for $5. Brilliant.
super cute. love!
very cute stockings :)
Talitha xx
http://www.ttimechatter.com
I have a tights project sitting half-finished on my craft table!!!! Yours are just the inpiration I need to finish them (handstitching….)
Very cute!
I love how simple this is and kind of a fun, do while you watch a movie kind of project. The polka dots are so unique too. Great idea Kate. I’m pinning you!
What a fun idea!
oh wow! I love this!I must try! Super cute!! Thanks for sharing!
I found you on TT&J and I Would LOVE for you to come by and link this up (and more posts) at my new “Create and Inspire Linky! Thanks so much!
http://www.littleinspiration.com/2011/12/create-and-inspire-linky-party.html
Angie from A Little Inspiration
These are so cute! Thanks for the tutorial
Any ideas how you would do this for little girl’s tights? I don’t think I can squeeze into my 6 year old’s. ;)
I tried your tutorial to make these heart tights:
http://sweetathena.blogspot.com/2012/08/makeover-monday-heart-tights.html
I really like how they came out, thanks for sharing another great idea!
Jess
Use a washable marker to make your dots while wearing them, remove them, then use the cardboard to apply the puff paint then you don’t get dots on your legs and the marker washes off plus you won’t smear your dots..