The process
Ordering a custom pair is straightforward. Here is exactly how it works from first message to delivery.
Step 1: Reach out
Send an email to [email protected] with the following:
- The shoe model and size you want painted (you can supply your own pair or we can source one)
- Your design idea: themes, colours, reference images, characters, patterns, or text
- Whether you prefer matte, satin, or gloss finish
- Your deadline if you have one (graduations, birthdays, events)
Do not worry about having a fully formed concept. A mood board, a few photos, or even just "I want something inspired by the ocean at night" is enough to start.
Step 2: Quote and mockup
Based on your brief, we will send back a price quote and a rough timeline. If you are happy to proceed, we collect a 50% deposit and start working on a digital mockup.
The mockup is a photoshop rendering of your design on the actual shoe model. You get one round of revisions at this stage at no extra cost. Major concept changes after approval may incur an additional design fee.
Step 3: Painting
Once the mockup is approved, we begin painting. This is the longest phase: typically 1 to 3 weeks depending on detail level and current queue position. We send progress photos at key stages so you can see the work develop.
Step 4: Sealing and shipping
The finished pair gets sealed with your chosen finish, then cures for 24 hours. We ship via tracked service. Domestic US orders arrive in 3 to 5 business days. International shipping is available and typically takes 7 to 14 days.
Pricing
Pricing depends on the complexity of the design, not the shoe model. Here are the general tiers:
- Simple designs (colour blocking, minimal patterns, small logos): $150 to $250
- Medium complexity (detailed illustrations on one or two panels, mixed techniques): $250 to $400
- Full coverage (every panel painted, highly detailed artwork, multiple characters): $400 to $650
These prices are for the painting only. If we source the base shoe for you, that cost is added separately at retail price plus shipping.
Shoe options
We can paint on any smooth leather or synthetic leather sneaker. The most popular bases are:
- Nike Air Force 1 (Low or High)
- Nike Dunk (Low or High)
- Air Jordan 1 (Low, Mid, or High)
- Vans Old Skool or Sk8-Hi
- Converse Chuck Taylor
- Adidas Stan Smith or Superstar
Canvas shoes (like standard Chucks) work too but require different prep. Mesh, knit, and suede are not recommended as they do not hold paint well over time.
Turnaround time
Standard turnaround is 2 to 4 weeks from deposit to shipping. Rush orders (under 2 weeks) are sometimes possible at an additional 25% fee, depending on current workload.
If your order is for a specific date (birthday, wedding, prom), tell us upfront. We will confirm whether the timeline is realistic before taking your deposit.
Care and durability
DLRD customs are sealed for daily wear. That said, they are hand-painted art, and a bit of care will keep them looking sharp for longer:
- Avoid machine washing. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- Do not leave in direct sunlight for extended periods (car dashboards, windowsills).
- Use a shoe tree or stuff with paper when storing to maintain shape.
- If the finish gets scuffed over time, we offer touch-up service for returning customers at a reduced rate.
Frequently asked questions
Can I send in a pair I already own?
Yes. Ship them to us after placing your deposit. We will assess the condition and let you know if any prep limitations exist. Shoes should be clean and in good structural shape.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We have shipped to the UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, and more. International shipping costs are calculated based on destination and added to the final payment.
Can I get a design from the gallery recreated?
No. Every piece in the gallery is a one-of-one. We can create something new that draws on a similar style or colour palette, but we do not repeat designs.
What if I do not like the mockup?
You get one revision round included. If after revisions you still want to cancel, we refund 75% of your deposit (25% covers the design time already spent).