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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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