HELLO Los Angeles!
Here's the full line up of classes while we're around.
SPACE LIMITED!
* all classes will be held at Willie's Shoe Service:
1174 S la Brea Avenue los angeles 90019
SIGN UP and learn more about each class BELOW
We regularly have these classes scheduled in our calendar!
Duration: 2 Hours (Single-session class)
Format: Group or private session (in-person or online available)
Skill Level: Open to all. Ideal for beginners and curious makers
Tuition: $100
Class Size: Private or small group (2-student minimum for group class)
We roughly cover this content in the 5-day course on day 1, in the morning as well.
Course Objectives
By the end of this intro session, students will:
Understand the basic construction and anatomy of footwear
Learn common shoemaking terminology and techniques
Discover what lasts are and how they influence fit and design
Learn how to measure their own feet accurately for shoemaking
Gain insight into sourcing materials and tools
Begin sketching ideas and feeling confident to design their first pair of shoes
Be better prepared to take hands-on shoemaking classes with the right knowledge and supplies
Topics Covered
Footwear Construction Fundamentals
Parts of a shoe: upper, lining, insole, midsole, shank, outsole, heel, toplift and more
Overview of different shoe construction methods (cemented, Strobel stitched, Handwelted etc.)
What makes a well-made shoe?
Lasts & Fit
What is a last and why is it the foundation of shoemaking?
How to measure your feet and choose the right last shape
Tips on modifying or ordering custom lasts
Fit considerations based on design (heels, sneakers, sandals, boots, barefoot)
Materials & Tools
Types of leather and alternatives used in uppers and linings
Overview of soling materials and hardware
Where to source materials locally and online
Recommendations on essential tools for beginners
Design & Inspiration
Starting a sketch: design intention vs. technical needs
Consider silhouette, function, closure type, and material
Students are encouraged to sketch a rough idea for their first shoe
Recommended For:
Beginners looking to explore footwear design before diving into construction
Students planning to take future shoemaking courses (sandal-making, sneaker, or boot classes)
Designers and creatives who want to understand the foundation of footwear production. (We cover differences between manufactured shoes vs handmade shoes)
Anyone looking to custom order a last ahead of a more advanced course
If you don’t see a class on the calendar that fits your schedule, you can book a date that works for you!
Private Class: Prefer a one-on-one session or working on a specific project? Book a private intro class at your convenience.
Group Class:If you’re planning ahead, you can join a group class. Let us know your availability at least 30 days in advance. We’ll post it on the calendar and open it to others. Please note: 2 students minimum required to run a group session.
In this 5-hour class, you will make a pattern for your own design. You will make both upper and lining patterns. This is a class you can take multiple times, depending on different designs you wish to create. Each style has a different pattern, and different tips and tricks.
You can always come back for this class for your new designs!
Book a Private Class: If you're in a hurry and prefer a one-on-one session, you can schedule a private class on a day that works best for you.
Join a Group Class: If you can plan ahead with at least one month’s notice, you can sign up for a group class on a day of your choice. We’ll post available dates on the calendar and see if others are interested in joining. Please note, we need a minimum of 2 students to hold a group class.
We are re-opening this class by popular demand.
In this Bag Making course, students will choose their leather and hardware and learn how to construct a tote bag from start to finish.
The bag making course includes tuition and all the materials needed to make your bag. Leathers will be available to choose from on the day. No experience necessary.
**Class time may extend up to an additional hour if there are many enrollments, so please do not book bus or train tickets immediately after the scheduled end time of class.
**Disclaimer: We used to offer a class that was integrated with backpack making but the time wasn’t sufficient for both types of classes in one, so we will only focus on tote bags for this class.
Book a Private Class: If you're in a hurry and prefer a one-on-one session, you can schedule a private class on a day that works best for you.
Join a Group Class: If you can plan ahead with at least one month’s notice, you can sign up for a group class on a day of your choice. We’ll post available dates on the calendar and see if others are interested in joining. Please note, we need a minimum of 2 students to hold a group class.
In this 2-day course, you will learn the basics of shoemaking, but only making half of it (the front half!) in a form of Mules- You will modify a Standard Mule pattern to your design, trace and cut material, last the upper, insert toe puffs, prep the outsoles, and sole the mules.
An easy style to start!
Book a Private Class: If you're in a hurry and prefer a one-on-one session, you can schedule a private class on a day that works best for you.
Join a Group Class: If you can plan ahead with at least one month’s notice, you can sign up for a group class on a day of your choice. We’ll post available dates on the calendar and see if others are interested in joining. Please note, we need a minimum of 2 students to hold a group class.
PLEASE SEND YOUR SHOE SIZE ahead of time.
All tools and supplies are included in the course.
If you prefer a high-heeled mule, please take a 3-day stiletto course, or book a private class. They cannot be finished in a one-long-day course.
Pull-down menu will show you available in-person dates, or private course or zoom class dates of your choice. Once you book, we will contact you for details! Email us with dates of your choice! keiko@brooklynshoespace.com
TEACHER: KEIKO OR FOSSEY