Needlepoint Sandal Designs from Sandy Arthur
Flip SWAPS are beautiful and fun interchangeable straps that fit the marketed flip flops known as Switchflops.
The Duo Designs, Inc. needlepoint straps are mounted by the finisher adding velcro strips on the backing of the needlework strap and then they are pushed against the other part of the velcro strip attached to the straps of the shoe.
These shoes come in many styles and a wide variety of colors and choices. Be sure to check with your LNS to see if they carry them. If not, you can find them online at Amazon!
The various designs use a wide variety of stitches and threads to match their unique themes. Threads help make the designs your very own. Most are accented with an appropriate button or bead to add more dimension to the center of the needlepoint strap.
The added benefit of the Flip SWAPS from Duo Designs, Inc. is that you have the option of stitching an edging that will allow you to be able to finish the Flip SWAPS yourself.
The designs are on 18 count Zweigart monocanvas. They stitch up quickly. Some even have stitch guides available for purchase.
Be sure to check out all the styles. You are sure to want them all for your summer outings. Check back often for new designs as they are added.
Flip Swaps Designs with Stitch Guides
Bees A Buzzin
Bees a Buzzin Flip Swaps - Finished Model
BEES A BUZZIN Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsThis sunny, bright canvas is an 18 count monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. It is quickly stitched in threads such as Vineyard Silk, Kreinik Braid, Bella Lusso wool and Rainbow Gallery Flair.
Stitches include the buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, honeycomb background and diagonal tent stitch (aka basketweave) with cute dimensional wings.
The canvas has two (2) decorative buttons included with it. The buttons may vary from those pictured.
Just Canvas and Buttons $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00BEES A BUZZIN Flip Swaps Canvas with Stitch GuideThis sunny, bright canvas is an 18 count monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. It is quickly stitched in threads such as Vineyard Silk, Kreinik Braid, Bella Lusso wool and Rainbow Gallery Flair.
Stitches include the buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, honeycomb background and diagonal tent stitch (aka basketweave) with cute dimensional wings.
The canvas has two (2) decorative buttons included with it. The buttons may vary from those pictured.
A separate stitch guide is available for purchase when purchasing the canvas. The Stitch Guide is provided in PDF format and will be available for download as soon as the transaction is completed. A printed copy of the Stitch Guide is also sent along with the canvas and buttons.
S/H Canvas plus SG: $10.95Price: $61.00
Ladybugs on a Vine
Flip Swaps Lady Bugs on a Vine - Stitched Model
Ladybugs on a Vine Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsWho doesn't love a ladybug. Aren't they just too cute!
This is an 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches by 12 inches. The suggested threads for this canvas are cotton floss, pearl cotton, Rainbow Gallery Splendor, Shimmer and Caron Watercolours.
Stitches include a buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, diagonal mosaic, diagonal tent (aka basketweave), stem stitch, outline stitch, staggered chain stitch, needlewoven picots, French knot and adding beads.
Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas. The buttons may vary from those pictured.
Ladybugs on a Vine - Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50
Price: $46.00
Ladybugs on a Vine Flip Swaps Canvas and Buttons with Stitch GuideWho doesn't love a ladybug. Aren't they just too cute!
This is an 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches by 12 inches. The suggested threads for this canvas are cotton floss, pearl cotton, Rainbow Gallery Splendor, Shimmer and Caron Watercolours.
Stitches include a buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, diagonal mosaic, diagonal tent (aka basketweave), stem stitch, outline stitch, staggered chain stitch, needlewoven picots, French knot and adding beads.
Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas. The buttons may vary from those pictured.
A separate stitch guide is available for purchase when purchasing the canvas. The Stitch Guide is provided in PDF format and will be available for download as soon as the transaction is completed. A printed copy of the Stitch Guide is also sent along with the canvas and buttons.
Canvas and Buttons plus Stitch Guide: $61 (US)
S/H Canvas plus SG: $10.95Price: $61.00
Stars and Stripes
Flips Swaps Stars and Stripes Stitche Model
Stars and Stripes Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsYour patriotism is showing when you wear these wonderful Flip SWAPS.
This is an 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. Threads suggested include Caron Watercolours, Rainbow Gallery Petite Sparkle Rays, and Splendor.
Stitches include the buttonhole for a finished edge, bargello variation, multilayered star, reverse Scotch stitch and smyrna cross stitch.
Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas. The buttons may vary from those in the photograph.
Stars and Stripes - Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00Stars and Stripes Flip Swaps Canvas and Buttons with Stitch GuideYour patriotism is showing when you wear these wonderful Flip SWAPS.
This is an 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. Threads suggested include Caron Watercolours, Rainbow Gallery Petite Sparkle Rays, and Splendor.
Stitches include the buttonhole for a finished edge, bargello variation, multilayered star, reverse Scotch stitch and smyrna cross stitch.
Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas. The buttons may vary from those in the photograph.
A separate stitch guide is available for purchase when purchasing the canvas. The Stitch Guide is provided in PDF format and will be available for download as soon as the transaction is completed. A printed copy of the Stitch Guide is also sent along with the canvas and buttons.
Canvas and Buttons plus Stitch Guide: $61 (US)
S/H Canvas plus SG: $10.95Price: $61.00
Sheep in the Meadow
Flip Swaps Sheep in the Meadow Stitched Model
Sheep in the Meadow Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsThis pleasant pastoral scene is on 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. The design utilizes threads such as Caron Watercolours, pearl cotton, Rainbow Gallery Flair, Bella Lusso wool and cotton floss.
Stitches include a buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, bargello variation, mosaic, diatonal tent (aka basketweave), French knot, and couching. Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas.
Buttons may vary from those in the photograph.
Sheep in the Meadow - Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00Sheep in the Meadow Flip Swaps Canvas and Buttons with Stitch GuideThis pleasant pastoral scene is on 18 ct. monocanvas that is 11 inches x 12 inches. The design utilizes threads such as Caron Watercolours, pearl cotton, Rainbow Gallery Flair, Bella Lusso wool and cotton floss.
Stitches include a buttonhole stitch for a finished edge, bargello variation, mosaic, diatonal tent (aka basketweave), French knot, and couching. Two (2) decorative buttons are included with the canvas.
Buttons may vary from those in the photograph.
A separate stitch guide is available for purchase when purchasing the canvas.The Stitch Guide is provided in PDF format and will be available for download as soon as the transaction is completed. A printed copy of the Stitch Guide is also sent along with the canvas and buttons.
Canvas and Buttons plus Stitch Guide: $61 (US)
S/H Canvas plus SG: $10.95Price: $61.00
Flip Swaps Designs Canvas only, no stitch guides
Flippin' Zebra Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count monocanvas, 11" x 12", zebra stripes, with decorative button (button may vary). These animal print flipSwaps will attract attention wherever they go.
They stitch up quickly and beautifully. Use a fine silk, cotton or one of the new threads to add sheen and glow to accent that pedicure!
Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
Flippin' Tiger Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count monocanvas, 11" x 12", tiger stripes, with decorative button (button may vary).
These can be stitched in silk, cotton, or even more fun in a beautiful Rainbow Gallery Treasure Braid for some sparkle!
Hand-painted 18 count monocanvas, 11" x 12", tiger stripes, with decorative button (button may vary) Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
Palms on the Beach Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count monocanvas, 11" x 12", with alternating stripes and beach scene, with decorative button (button may vary).
The colorful canopy stripes are fun and perky. Just visualize yourself on the beach with the palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze.
A lot can been done with this design with the funky new threads, interesting stitches, etc. Let your imagination go!
Just Canvas and Buttons: $46 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
Ladybug Spots Flip Swaps Black Spots - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count red monocanvas, 11" x 12", with black dots and decorative button (button may vary).
The black spots really pop against the red Zweigart canvas background. Stitch the dots in a Rhodes stitch to add dimension.
A YLI RibbonFloss will add a little shine as well. Ladybugs are always special.
Just Canvas and Buttons: $44 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
Ladybug Spots Flip Swaps Red Spots - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count black monocanvas, 11" x 12", with red spots and decorative button (button may vary).
The red spots are vivid against the black canvas background. They really pop when stitching in something dimensional like a Rhodes stitch.
A YLI RibbonFloss will add a little shine as well. Everyone loves ladybugs!
Just Canvas and Buttons: $44 (US)
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
Peacock Feathers Flip Swaps - Just Canvas and ButtonsHand-painted 18 count monocanvas, 11" x 12", with decorative button (button may vary).
This design is made for the larger sized shoes because of the length of the feather.
If having professionally finished, it can be shortened at the throat of the strap for the shorter shoes.
Go crazy with lots of sparkly braids, ribbons and maybe even scatter some beads. Peacocks are show offs so go for it!
Just Canvas and Buttons: $46
S/H: $9.50Price: $46.00
SELF FINISHING FOR FLIPSWAPS
Download the FlipSwaps Finishing Instructions here:
Some of the flip flops (thongs) shoes lend themselves to self-finishing (such as SwitchFlops
If you choose to self-finish, you need to stitch the edging first and then fill in the remainder of the strap.
Self-finished Edge (Optional)
If the pieces are to be self-finished, then a Buttonhole edging needs to be stitched before the rest of the design is made.
Lay the strap that came with the shoe on top of the canvas and mark the length on both ends prior to stitching. Some straps are longer than others due to shoe size.Also, there is usually a definite right strap and a left strap. Add approximately 1/4 inch to that length.
Use the thread that the main background is stitched in and stitch a Buttonhole stitch around the entire outline of the strap. Cover 3 threads. When turning a corner, stitch 3-5 Buttonhole stitches in the same base stitch (the hole that is shared), fanning out at the top of the stitch. After turning a corner, a more pleasing edge is created by stepping up 1 thread or down 1 thread (following the shape of the straps) about every 5 stitches. This results in a more evenly spaced diagonal line.
Buttonhole Stitch over Three - Left to Right
Buttonhole Stitch over Three - Turning a Corner
When design is completely stitched, remove fabric from stretcher bars. If self finishing, it is helpful to run a thin line of glue over the area of Buttonhole stitches. Let glue dry thoroughly. Trim very carefully as close to the Buttonhole stitched edge as possible without cutting the stitching thread.
FAQ – Flip SWAPS
Are there different sizes?
The straps that are sewn to the shoe by a finisher are custom made and sized through your local needlepoint shop. All straps will work for that style shoe.
While the needlepoint straps canvas are one size, the shoe straps on the SwitchFlops
Some styles of shoes, such as SwitchFlops
The SwitchFlops
If a stitcher is not comfortable with self-finishing, check with your local needlework shop for their suggestions. On these style shoes, the buttonhole edge would not be done but a binding stitch would probably be more appropriate. Discuss the finishing preferences with the local needlework shop.
If no finishing is available locally, feel free to contact Sandy using the Contact Sandy page here and we will be happy to provide some sources.
What are the buttons for?
A set of two (2) buttons is provided with each Flip SWAPS canvas. These buttons are a decoration to be added to the center peak of the strap. They add a little whimsy or bling to the shoe. Button styles will vary. They are, however, theme related. For instance a canvas with a ladybug theme will have some type of ladybug button provided.
SwitchFlops – a Fun Summer Sandal, with or without Needlepoint
Flip SWAPS are beautiful and fun interchangeable straps that fit the marketed flip flops known as Switchflops.
Designed by Lindsay Phillips, SwitchFlops are a versatile sandal with interchangeable straps. They are available in many styles and colors. Even if you don’t needlepoint, SwitchFlops are a versatile way to extend your sandal wardrobe!
With the amazing variety of SwitchFlops strap designs and sandals, Lindsay’s dream of changing from beach casual to a formal affair in a matter of seconds was realized.
As Lindsay likes to say…
“Change your look, not your sole.”
If you have had a hard time finding them, they are available online at Amazon!
Our second book, Shapes of Needlepoint Series II: Diamond Hearts Octagon Stars
To purchase Shapes of Needlepoint - Series 2, please click HERE.
Our first book, Shapes of Needlepoint Series I: Circles Squares Triangles Rectangles
Shopping Cart is Empty