Introduction: Slipper Grippers

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This project was created for YuKonstruct's Sugru Build Night.

With cooler weather just around the corner, it seemed like a good time to upgrade a pair of leather soled, felted slippers which have become very slippery.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

You will need:

  • slippers needing a better grip
  • scissors
  • hole punch
  • pen
  • a package of Sugru
  • mactac or adhesive shelf liner
  • plastic wrap (optional)

Step 2: Cut Out Your Stencils

Place slipper sole down on adhesive shelf liner (paper side up).

Trace the outline of the sole and cut it out.

Repeat with other slipper.

Step 3: Fold Your Stencil

Fold each stencil in half lengthwise and then fold it lengthwise again, folding each side back up to the middle like an accordion.

Step 4: Punch Holes in Your Stencil and Apply It to the Sole

Punch holes through all four layers of the folded stencil with the hole punch, beginning at one end and moving to the other about a 1/2" at a time.

Alternate from side to side, creating a zig-zag pattern and keeping your holes at least a 1/2" in from the edge of the stencil.

Unfold the punched stencil, peel off the adhesive paper and apply the sticky side of the stencil to the slipper sole.

Press inside the slipper with your hand, or step inside, to smooth it out and ensure that it is well stuck to the sole.

Note: For better adhesion, you might want to give your sole a bit of a clean (wipe) and let it dry completely before applying the stencil.

Step 5: Apply the Sugru

Open up a package of Sugru, kneed it a bit and then divide it into two pieces. Set one aside for the other sole.

Pinch off a small bit of Sugru at a time, and smear it across and into one of the stencil holes.

Do this again and again until all of the holes are filled.

Step 6: Remove the Stencil

Once all the holes are filled you can remove the stencil. Peel it off carefully, beginning at one end.

Repeat steps 4-6 on the other slipper sole.

Step 7: Optional

This step may not be necessary, but it may add a bit more stick to your grip.

Using some kind of plastic wrap, that doesn't stick to Sugru, lay out a piece and place the freshly Sugrued slippers, sole down on it.

Step inside or use your hands to give a bit of pressure to ensure the Sugru is well stuck to the leather.

Step 8: Wait for the Sugru to Cure

Don't be tempted to wear your slippers just yet! Your newly upgraded slippers will need to be set aside for 24 hours to allow the Sugru to fully cure.