Canvas Sneaker Design Lab: 6-Session Course

THE ART OF CREATING CUSTOM SNEAKERS Every great design begins with an idea. What if you could wear yours? In the Artista Nova Sneaker Design Lab, participants transform plain canvas sneakers into wearable art while learning how artists take an idea from concept to finished creation. Across six live, hands-on studio sessions, learners explore design, color, composition, painting, layering, detailing, and finishing while building real sneaker-customization skills. Participants may follow Daniel’s featured design or create an original concept of their own. Daniel helps participants shape their ideas into designs that are creative, achievable, and suited to the course. THE CREATIVE JOURNEY Session 1 — Imagine & Plan Develop the concept, composition, and color palette. Session 2 — Prepare & Transfer Prepare the sneakers and place the artwork. Session 3 — Build the Foundation Develop brush control, coverage, color, and foundational shapes. Session 4 — Bring It to Life Build layers, strengthen the design, and develop the artwork. Session 5 — Refine Clean edges, sharpen linework, strengthen contrast, and add details. Session 6 — Finish & Protect Complete the artwork and learn how to protect and care for painted sneakers. LIVE. HANDS-ON. INTERACTIVE. Each two-hour session combines close-up demonstrations, guided studio time, Q&A, and individual feedback. Daniel teaches each technique step-by-step before participants apply it to their own sneakers. No advanced painting experience is required. Participants provide their own canvas sneakers and supplies from the class supply list. Six sessions. One pair of sneakers. An idea transformed into wearable art. Recommended Ages: 12–16 Format: Live Virtual Studio Series Experience Series Length: 6 sessions (120 minutes each) Skill Level: Beginner–Intermediate

Experience subject

THE CREATIVE PROCESS OF WEARABLE ART In the Artista Nova Sneaker Design Lab, students discover how artists and designers transform inspiration into original wearable art through imagination, storytelling, and thoughtful design. Throughout this live virtual studio series, students explore the complete creative process—from brainstorming and sketching to color planning, painting, and professional finishing techniques. Each session encourages curiosity, creative thinking, and craftsmanship while allowing every participant to develop a design that reflects their own personality, interests, and artistic voice. What You'll Learn: • Sneaker design fundamentals • Color theory and visual storytelling • Creative brainstorming and concept development • Sketch or transfer their design • Brush control, layering, coverage, and detailing techniques • Creative confidence and self-expression • Refine, finish, protect, and care for their customized sneakers Preparing for Your Studio Session: Prior to the first session, students will prepare their sneakers by removing the laces, cleaning the canvas surface, and complete the cardboard​/​socks inserts. Only when prompted, mask the rubber soles approximately 24hrs before painting, and no sooner. This allows us to spend more of our class time for designing, painting, and bringing your sneakers to life. We'll also discuss how to create a simple, safe, and organized home studio with good lighting and ventilation. Basic Materials: White canvas high-top sneakers (Converse® or similar) Acrylic paints and brushes Laptop or tablet with internet access A clean, well-lit workspace with table *A complete professional materials guide, preparation instructions, and recommended supplies will be provided before the first session.

Introductory video

Age range

  • 10-12
  • 13-15
  • 16-18

Intelligence

  • Visual-spatial
  • Interpersonal
  • Intrapersonal

Character Strengths

  • Appreciation of beauty & excellence
  • Creativity
  • Curiosity
  • Perseverance
  • Perspective
  • Self-control
  • Sense of meaning

Experience type

  • Group

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$49.00
per hour