A Mile in My Shoes

What do you know about your family’s heritage? In what countries has your family lived? Where were your great-grandparents raised? What jobs did they have? What tales have you heard about your family history?

Do some research to find more information about your family history. Gather as many facts as you can on the places your family has traveled, where your great-aunts, uncles, and cousins were born, and how you got to where your family is now. Ask older members of your family to share stories with you that have been passed down for generations!

Document your findings on a pair of canvas shoes using Crayola Bright Fabric Markers. Imagine what your family members’ shoes would say if they could talk! What stories would they have to tell? Where have they traveled and what have they seen?

Draw colorful designs and symbols that let the shoes speak for themselves! For best results, use 100% cotton fabric shoes. Draw your designs, making sure you saturate the canvas. Be creative! Experiment with different techniques when using the markers for interesting effects and textures! Go over your drawings with several layers of the Bright Fabric Marker for the boldest color!

Stain Advisement: Fabric markers are permanent on clothing and contain colorants that may stain household surfaces. Wear a smock to protect clothing and cover your work surface. Recap markers as soon as possible and store in a horizontal position. Do not shake markers.

When you are finished, ask as adult to place your shoes in the dryer for 30 minutes on the hottest setting. This will fix the color to the fabric.

Wear your shoes to your next family event! Show them off and have fun sharing all the discoveries you uncovered through your research!