Okay, so check this out – I made flip flops from yoga mats. Seriously! Let me tell you how it went down.
It all started because I had this old yoga mat lying around. You know, the kind you buy thinking you’ll become a zen master, but then it just ends up gathering dust in a corner? Well, I was about to toss it, and then I thought, “Wait a minute… this could be something!”
First, I grabbed a pair of my old flip flops as a template. I figured, why reinvent the wheel, right? I laid the flip flop on the yoga mat and traced around it with a Sharpie. Make sure you press down firmly so you get a clear outline. This is crucial, or you’ll end up with wonky-shaped flops.
Next, I cut out the shapes. This was a little tricky. I used a box cutter, but you could probably use heavy-duty scissors too. Just be careful not to slice your fingers off! I cut slightly outside the line I drew, because you can always trim it down later. Trust me on this one.
Now, for the strap holes. This part was kinda scary, I ain’t gonna lie. I took a small screwdriver and heated it up with a lighter (carefully!). Then, I poked it through the yoga mat where the straps would go. You could also use a leather punch if you have one of those fancy things. Just make sure the holes are big enough for the straps but not too big, or they’ll rip out.
For the straps, I raided my junk drawer and found an old purse strap. You could also use paracord, rope, or even strips of fabric. I cut the purse strap into pieces and threaded them through the holes. This was the fiddliest part, I had to use pliers to pull the straps through.
Then I just kinda knotted the straps on the underside of the flip flop. I tied them real tight, and then added a dab of super glue to each knot to make sure they wouldn’t come undone. You could also use hot glue, but super glue is what I had on hand.
And that was it! I had a pair of flip flops made from a yoga mat. They aren’t the prettiest things in the world, but they’re comfy and waterproof. Perfect for wearing around the house or to the beach. Plus, I saved a yoga mat from going to the landfill. Win-win!
Things I learned:
- Cutting the yoga mat is harder than it looks. Use a sharp blade and take your time.
- The strap holes are critical. Make sure they’re the right size and in the right place.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials for the straps.
Give it a try! It’s a fun little project, and you might just end up with your new favorite pair of flip flops. Or at least a good story to tell.
