Custom Kicks: An interview with ink.aware.customs

When it comes to modern fashion, one particular front of fashion comes to mind: the customisation of trainers. I was lucky enough to ask @ink.aware.customs a few questions on his experience of customising sneakers as well as understanding this movement's influence and popularity.

The Daily Stripe: How did you first get into making custom sneakers?

ink.aware.customs: I first saw a pair of custom sneakers on Instagram and saw an opportunity to start something for myself. Following this I decided to experiment on my own shoes and it took off from there.

TDS: Are there any particular artists/designers/musicians etc. who inspire you and your designs?

IAC: Definitely, my first ever pair of custom shoes were inspired by Keith Haring. Roy Lichtenstein is also an obvious influence on the Pop Art Air Force 1s. Using the same styles as these timeless and influential artists helps to give me some direction when I'm first starting to design a pair.

TDS: Walk us through the process of customising a trainer

IAC: I think it’s important to start with a clear idea and a plan. I spend a lot of time talking with customers and designing their shoes to make sure I’m giving them exactly what they want. First the shoe must be cleaned and stripped down. Then taped up, painted and finished. I check to make sure everything is as clean as possible and send them off.

TDS: What would you say is your favourite shoe to customise? Why?

IAC: I’ve done nearly all my work on Nike Airforce 1s. It’s an iconic silhouette and has remained popular from the 80s till today. The panels are relatively easy to work with as well and the leather always gives the cleanest finish as opposed to a pair of canvas Vans for example. 

TDS: What in your opinion is one of the most iconic shoe silhouettes?

IAC: As I said before I think the Air Force 1s are up there with maybe Jordan’s XI, Converse Chuck Taylor’s too. There are too many to mention.

TDS: Has the demand for custom kicks risen over the years? If so, why?

IAC: I think it definitely has, although I’ve not been around for too long to see it grow, I’ve certainly noticed a whole load of customisers starting and creating some really great work. A lot of the time it’s about expressing yourself, customers themselves want a 1 of 1 shoe and I can totally understand why. 

TDS: What was the most challenging design you have tackled on a shoe so far?

IAC: I think my most recent pair of Airforce with the close up of a tiger's face were my most challenging pair. I’d never really tried something like that before and I found it interesting having to adapt my style of painting. They came out looking great though and I enjoyed the challenge.

TDS: On your Instagram account, your bio states that people can DM you with ideas. How does it feel to have a platform on which you can directly communicate with your customers?

IAC: I think that’s one of the amazing things about social media and a business like mine wouldn’t be possible without it. With a couple clicks of a button your in contact with people from all over the world. It’s helped me find a community of like minded people, who may not necessarily want to buy anything but appreciate artwork.

Thanks for reading ;)