Shoe-making

The starting point of making shoes is to select a 'last'.

The last reflects the shape, size and fitting of the shoe which is to be made.

A set of patterns for a shoe style is cut out, based on the measurements of the last.

A skin of leather is selected and using the patterns, several pieces of leather are cut out by hand.

Any design feature is added and the pieces are prepared for assembling.

The pieces are sewn together, incorporating all necessary linings, stiffeners etc., so that they fit over the last thus forming the upper in its correct shape and proportions.

A leather insole is moulded to the bottom of the last

The upper is hand lasted and tacked in position before being cemented to the insole.

The bottom is prepared and the sole is attached.

The last is removed from the shoe and the shoe is finally hand finished.