Shoemaking - Intensive, London, UK

Course outline:

Day 1: Materials and Design. Brief identification and understanding of the material types and end uses of leather for upper and lining, insoles, seat pads, shankboards, shanks, socks, toe puffs, stiffeners, fastening systems, zips, touch and close, laces, etc. Start working from the last. The emphasis is on construction but, depending on individual ability and skill level, it may be possible for students to interpret their own design ideas. The tutor will discuss this with each student on day 1 and 2.

Day 2: Pattern Cutting. Understanding the pattern cutting process for a full pair of ladies shoes, including: cover the last, flatten shell, pattern cutting, mean form, allowances, grading patterns.

Day 3: Closing. Prepare the shoe upper, including cutting pattern pieces and stitching upper pieces together. Machinery used.

Day 4/5: Making the shoe. Basic understanding of the whole shoemaking process. The handmade process from lasting to making and finishing. Machinery used.

Learning Outcome: Students will be able to identify the main materials and components used for shoemaking, demonstrate an understanding of the whole shoemaking process, with the aim of completing a pair by the end of the session.

A choice of ladies lasts in standard sizes (British 2 to 11, European 35 to 45, American 4.5 to 13.5) will be available to use during the workshop sessions subject to availability.

The price includes specialist shoe components.

Class times: 10am - 6pm