Uploaded May 2025 | Updated September 2026, 5 hours ago
Welcome to our in-depth tutorial on a fundamental concept in shoemaking: the critical role of selecting the correct shoe last for your design. This video is especially valuable for beginners in shoemaking, as it addresses common misconceptions and provides clear guidance on designing comfortable and aesthetically pleasing footwear.
#shoemaking #sandals #handcraftedshoes
Understanding the Shoe Last
A shoe last is more than just a mold; it's the foundation upon which a shoe is built. Each last is designed with specific dimensions, contours, and purposes in mind. Choosing the appropriate last is crucial for the success of your shoe design.
The Pitfalls of Using a Pump Last for Sandals
One frequent mistake among beginners is attempting to design sandals using a pump last. While it might seem convenient, this approach often leads to discomfort and design flaws. Let's explore why:
Front Strap Discomfort: The front strap of a sandal designed on a pump last often aligns directly with the ball of the foot, a sensitive area. This placement can cause significant discomfort during wear.
Instep Issues: To alleviate pressure on the ball of the foot, one might consider raising the strap. However, pump lasts are not designed to accommodate higher uppers, leading to potential discomfort on the instep.
Open Toe Challenges: Incorporating an open toe design on a pump last can result in the toes extending beyond the front edge of the strap, leading to both aesthetic and comfort issues.
The Solution: Selecting the Right Last
To design functional and comfortable sandals, it's imperative to use a last specifically designed for sandals. Sandal lasts account for the unique requirements of open designs, ensuring proper fit and comfort.
Alternative Approach: Hybrid Designs
If you're interested in combining elements of pumps and sandals, consider a hybrid design. For instance, using a pump last, you can create a D'Orsay-style shoe that features a closed toe and heel with open sides. This approach allows for creative expression while maintaining comfort and structural integrity.
Key Takeaways for Beginners
Understand the Purpose of Each Last: Recognize that each last serves a specific function and is tailored for certain designs.
Prioritize Comfort: Always consider the wearer's comfort. Aesthetics should not compromise functionality.
Educate Yourself: Invest time in learning about different last types and their applications. Our Ultimate Guide to Shoe Last Types is an excellent resource.
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/shoe-last-types
Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with various designs and lasts to gain practical experience and deepen your understanding.
Additional Resources
For a deeper dive into shoemaking principles and techniques, explore our other tutorials and articles:
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/how-to-make-narrow-elegant-sandals-straps
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/how-to-make-shoes
Join Our Community
Embark on your shoemaking journey with our comprehensive online courses tailored for beginners. Gain hands-on experience, learn from experts, and bring your unique designs to life.
Stay Connected
Website: Shoemaking Courses Online
shoemakingcoursesonline.com
Subscriber to my Youtube Channel
youtube.com/@ShoemakingCourses?sub_confirmation=1
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of shoe lasts and their appropriate applications is fundamental in shoemaking. By selecting the correct last for your design, you ensure both comfort and durability in your footwear creations. Remember, successful shoemaking blends creativity with technical knowledge.
Keywords: shoemaking, shoemaking courses, beginners in shoemaking, shoe design, shoe last, pump shoes, sandals, D'Orsay pumps, footwear design, shoemaking principles, online shoemaking courses
#diy #handmade #videotutorial #shoemakingschool
Shaving Mirror Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
creativecommons.org/licenses
Welcome to our in-depth tutorial on a fundamental concept in shoemaking: the critical role of selecting the correct shoe last for your design. This video is especially valuable for beginners in shoemaking, as it addresses common misconceptions and provides clear guidance on designing comfortable and aesthetically pleasing footwear.
#shoemaking #sandals #handcraftedshoes
Understanding the Shoe Last
A shoe last is more than just a mold; it's the foundation upon which a shoe is built. Each last is designed with specific dimensions, contours, and purposes in mind. Choosing the appropriate last is crucial for the success of your shoe design.
The Pitfalls of Using a Pump Last for Sandals
One frequent mistake among beginners is attempting to design sandals using a pump last. While it might seem convenient, this approach often leads to discomfort and design flaws. Let's explore why:
Front Strap Discomfort: The front strap of a sandal designed on a pump last often aligns directly with the ball of the foot, a sensitive area. This placement can cause significant discomfort during wear.
Instep Issues: To alleviate pressure on the ball of the foot, one might consider raising the strap. However, pump lasts are not designed to accommodate higher uppers, leading to potential discomfort on the instep.
Open Toe Challenges: Incorporating an open toe design on a pump last can result in the toes extending beyond the front edge of the strap, leading to both aesthetic and comfort issues.
The Solution: Selecting the Right Last
To design functional and comfortable sandals, it's imperative to use a last specifically designed for sandals. Sandal lasts account for the unique requirements of open designs, ensuring proper fit and comfort.
Alternative Approach: Hybrid Designs
If you're interested in combining elements of pumps and sandals, consider a hybrid design. For instance, using a pump last, you can create a D'Orsay-style shoe that features a closed toe and heel with open sides. This approach allows for creative expression while maintaining comfort and structural integrity.
Key Takeaways for Beginners
Understand the Purpose of Each Last: Recognize that each last serves a specific function and is tailored for certain designs.
Prioritize Comfort: Always consider the wearer's comfort. Aesthetics should not compromise functionality.
Educate Yourself: Invest time in learning about different last types and their applications. Our Ultimate Guide to Shoe Last Types is an excellent resource.
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/shoe-last-types
Practice Makes Perfect: Experiment with various designs and lasts to gain practical experience and deepen your understanding.
Additional Resources
For a deeper dive into shoemaking principles and techniques, explore our other tutorials and articles:
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/how-to-make-narrow-elegant-sandals-straps
shoemakingcoursesonline.com/how-to-make-shoes
Join Our Community
Embark on your shoemaking journey with our comprehensive online courses tailored for beginners. Gain hands-on experience, learn from experts, and bring your unique designs to life.
Stay Connected
Website: Shoemaking Courses Online
shoemakingcoursesonline.com
Subscriber to my Youtube Channel
youtube.com/@ShoemakingCourses?sub_confirmation=1
Conclusion
Understanding the intricacies of shoe lasts and their appropriate applications is fundamental in shoemaking. By selecting the correct last for your design, you ensure both comfort and durability in your footwear creations. Remember, successful shoemaking blends creativity with technical knowledge.
Keywords: shoemaking, shoemaking courses, beginners in shoemaking, shoe design, shoe last, pump shoes, sandals, D'Orsay pumps, footwear design, shoemaking principles, online shoemaking courses
#diy #handmade #videotutorial #shoemakingschool
Shaving Mirror Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
creativecommons.org/licenses
![Leather Skiving Machine in Shoemaking [LIVE STREAM]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QTPjWwBe5L0/mqdefault.jpg "Leather Skiving Machine in Shoemaking [LIVE STREAM]
#shoemaking #shoemaker #howtomakeshoes
Full shoemaking courses at:
https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/on-line-courses/
Skiving is a critical process in shoemaking that determines the quality, flexibility, and durability of your footwear. Whether youre a beginner shoemaker or an experienced craftsman, mastering leather skiving—both by hand and using a skiving machine—is essential for producing professional-quality shoes.
In mass production, shoe factories don’t skive leather by hand. Instead, they use skiving machines to speed up the process and ensure precision. Many independent shoemakers and upper makers also rely on skiving machines to achieve consistent results in their work.
But do you really need a skiving machine for your shoemaking workshop? Can you still skive by hand and achieve the same level of quality? What are the best techniques to ensure clean, even skiving for seamless shoe construction?
In this live shoemaking tutorial, we will cover:
✅ What is a skiving machine, and why is it essential?
The role of skiving in shoe construction
When to use machine skiving vs. hand skiving
How skiving improves flexibility, aesthetics, and durability
✅ How to Use a Skiving Machine – A Step-by-Step Guide
Setting up and adjusting the skiving blade
Controlling skiving depth and thickness
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
✅ Practical Skiving Techniques for Shoemaking
Skiving for folding edges – avoiding bulky seams
Skiving for underlining techniques – achieving smooth, professional finishes
Skiving for piping and seam finishing – essential for clean edges
By the end of this session, you’ll have a clear understanding of how skiving works in shoemaking and whether you should invest in a skiving machine or continue skiving by hand.
What is Leather Skiving, and Why is it Important in Shoemaking?
Leather skiving is the process of thinning the edges of leather to reduce bulk and create smooth, flexible seams. It is a fundamental technique used in shoemaking, bag making, and other forms of leathercraft.
Why is skiving important?
✔️ Prevents bulky seams – Essential when folding leather or joining multiple layers.
✔️ Improves flexibility – Helps shoes mold better to the foot.
✔️ Creates professional finishes – Clean, smooth edges give shoes a polished look.
✔️ Enhances glue adhesion – Proper skiving ensures strong bonding for durability.
Without skiving, shoe seams can become too thick, making it difficult to stitch, fold, or shape the leather properly. This can lead to uncomfortable shoes, uneven finishes, or weakened construction.
Hand Skiving vs. Machine Skiving – Which is Best for Shoemaking?
Shoemakers have two main methods for skiving leather:
1️⃣ Hand Skiving – Traditional Shoemaking Techniques
Hand skiving is done using special shoemaking knives to manually shave down the leather. This technique:
🔹 Requires practice to master even skiving.
🔹 Offers more control for precision work.
🔹 Is ideal for custom shoemaking and repairs.
🔹 Takes more time compared to machine skiving.
Hand Tools for Skiving Leather
To skive leather by hand, you need the right tools:
✔️ Skiving knife – A sharp knife with a curved blade for thinning leather.
✔️ Glass or marble surface – Provides a firm base for controlled skiving.
✔️ Sharpening stone – Keeps the skiving knife razor-sharp for clean cuts.
✔️ Beveling tools – Helps smooth skived edges for a refined finish.
2️⃣ Machine Skiving – Efficient & Precise Shoemaking
A skiving machine is a specialized shoemaking tool designed to thin leather quickly and consistently. It is widely used in mass production and high-end shoemaking workshops.
🔹 Speeds up leather thinning for efficiency.
🔹 Ensures consistent skiving thickness.
🔹 Ideal for large-scale shoemaking.
🔹 Reduces hand fatigue for repetitive work.
How a Skiving Machine Works
✔️ The leather is fed under a rotating skiving blade.
✔️ A roller presses the leather to control skiving depth.
✔️ The machine shaves off thin layers, creating precise, even edges.
Why You Should Learn Skiving in Shoemaking Courses
If you want to improve your shoemaking skills, learning skiving is non-negotiable. Many professional shoemaking courses include detailed lessons on:
✔️ Skiving for seam allowances – Ensuring smooth folds and stitches.
✔️ Skiving for upper construction – Reducing bulk in multi-layered shoes.
✔️ Skiving for insole fitting – Creating a seamless transition in footbeds.
✔️ Skiving for welted shoes – Preparing leather for lasting and assembly.
By mastering skiving, you can take your shoemaking to a professional level and create high-quality shoes that look and feel great.
However, if you only make occasional custom shoes, you can achieve great results with hand skiving.")
![Nails in Shoemaking the Complete Guide [Live]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QYJslle0yx4/mqdefault.jpg "Nails in Shoemaking the Complete Guide [Live]
In this live video, we will explore one of the most essential yet often overlooked aspects of shoemaking: nails. Whether you’re a beginner in shoemaking or an experienced artisan, knowing the right types of nails to use can significantly impact the quality and durability of your shoes. This is the definitive guide to understanding shoemaking nails, a crucial component in making shoes that last.
When it comes to shoe making, every detail matters, and nails are no exception. From securing the sole to reinforcing the heel, the type of nail you use can make or break your project. In this session, we’ll cover all the different types of nails used in shoemaking, including which ones are best suited for specific shoe constructions. Whether youre crafting dress shoes, boots, or sneakers, choosing the right shoemaking nails is key.
For beginners in shoemaking, this guide is invaluable. We’ll break down each type of nail, explaining its purpose and how it contributes to the overall structure of the shoe. You’ll learn about nails for attaching insoles, securing heels, and how to protect the edge of the heels for a long-lasting. We’ll also discuss the minimum set of tools for shoemaking, including essential hammers and pincers that work hand-in-hand with these nails.
I wish I had known about all these different types of shoemaking nails when I first started my journey in shoemaking. Having the right knowledge about tools for shoemaking, especially nails, can save you from costly mistakes and improve the quality of your work.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this video is packed with practical information. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how to make shoes with precision and confidence. And if you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of shoemaking, don’t forget to check out our upcoming live course on Mastering Hand-Sewn Welted Shoes Preparation.
Full shoemaking courses:
https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/on-line-courses/")
![[Live] Making Kids Shoes? Watch This Before You Start](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/QnQITZYTCsI/mqdefault.jpg "[Live] Making Kids Shoes? Watch This Before You Start
Welcome to our live shoemaking session dedicated entirely to designing and constructing kids shoes—specifically, the T-Bar shoe style. In this video, we’ll explore the critical elements that make kids footwear supportive, functional, and truly healthy for growing feet.
🔹 Why This Live is So Important
Shoemaking for children isn’t about making mini versions of adult shoes. It’s a completely different game. Childrens feet are still developing, and the structure, balance, and support that go into their shoes must follow a different set of principles. That’s what we’re discussing today—what matters when it comes to shoemaking for kids, and why these elements cannot be compromised.
Special Focus: The Right Shoe Last for Kids
In today’s session, we’re using a special high-back shoe last specifically designed to support children’s ankles. This is not optional—it’s essential.
Why?
Because kids’ feet and ankles are still forming.
Because proper ankle support helps prevent future alignment issues.
Because flexibility needs to be balanced with structural reinforcement, especially in the back part of the shoe.
This high-back shoe last used in our Kids T-Bar Course, is ideal for providing the upright structure and control that kids need, without compromising comfort.
👡 The Heel That Matters
Many beginner shoemakers underestimate the importance of heel construction in kids’ shoes. In our course, we created a special heel that supports the child’s foot without pushing it forward unnaturally or lifting it too high.
This is not a mini adult heel. It’s custom-built for:
Ground stability
Proper weight distribution
Posture development
Prevention of heel collapse or inward rolling (common in early walkers)
We’ll touch on why we avoided high heels and how we measured heel height specifically for children’s body mechanics.
T-Bar Design: More Than Just a Cute Style
Yes, T-Bar shoes look adorable—but for us, it’s about functionality first. In this live, you’ll learn about the specific pattern design that makes our T-Bar model both stable and safe.
This design was chosen because:
It allows maximum flexibility in the forefoot
It keeps the midfoot and ankle well secured
It offers a practical opening for easy wear
It balances grip and movement
T-bar design offers dynamic support with a look kids (and parents) love. But every curve, strap, and opening is purposefully crafted.
🔗 Want to Dive Deeper? Join Our Full Course
If you like what you see and want to learn how to make healthy, supportive shoes for children—start with our Kids T-Bar Shoe Course: 🔗 https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/kids-t-bar-shoe-course/
This course covers:
Designing for kid-specific foot anatomy
Creating your own T-Bar patterns
Building healthy heels and soles
Assembling durable, flexible support elements
Choosing materials that are safe and breathable
Lasting techniques specific to kids’ shoes
We’ll show you how to combine traditional handmade techniques with essential childrens footwear features to create extra comfort, even if you’re a complete beginner.
Explore More Courses
We offer an entire library of in-depth shoemaking courses. Whether you’re interested in classic women’s pumps, sneakers, Oxford shoes, or sandals—you’ll find a course for every style and every level: https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/on-line-courses/
Here are some of our most popular options:
Women’s Court Shoes (Pumps)
Classic Oxford Shoes
Sneaker Construction
Bespoke Opanka Derby Shoes
T-Strap Pumps
High Heel Pumps
English Welted Brouge Oxford Men’s Shoes
Each course is rich in details, fully guided, and designed by a professional shoemaker with years of industry experience.
Follow Along & Ask Questions
If you’re watching this live, drop your questions in the chat! I’m here to share real knowledge from the shoemaking bench—not textbook fluff.
Remember: healthy shoes for kids start with informed design. Let’s build them the right way.
Take advantage of this weeks special discount of 80 Euros.
Start your journey here: https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/kids-t-bar-shoe-course/
Thanks for watching—and don’t forget to subscribe for more expert shoemaking tutorials!")
![Glue in Shoemaking! What we use to Make Shoes! [ LIVE ]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/T27UdOYLXrM/mqdefault.jpg "Glue in Shoemaking! What we use to Make Shoes! [ LIVE ]
Are you struggling to find the right glue for shoemaking? Wondering which adhesive works best for different materials? Join us for this in-depth live tutorial, where we’ll break down the four most useful types of glue every shoemaker must know! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artisan, understanding glue is crucial to making durable, high-quality shoes.
In shoemaking, glue isn’t just about sticking materials together—it’s about durability, flexibility, strength, and precision. Using the wrong adhesive can lead to cracked soles, peeling uppers, or weak bonds that compromise the entire shoe. That’s why this live tutorial is designed to give you the essential knowledge you need to choose the right shoemaking glue for every project.
📌 What We’ll Cover in This Live Session:
🔹 The 4 Most Essential Types of Glue – Discover the top adhesives used by professional shoemakers.
🔹 Material Compatibility – Which glue works best for leather, rubber, fabric, synthetic materials, and more?
🔹 Strength & Flexibility – The key differences between these glues and why they matter.
🔹 Drying Time & Application Methods – How to properly use each glue for a strong, lasting bond.
🔹 Is There a Universal Shoemaking Glue? – We’ll explore if one adhesive can really do it all.
🔹 Pro Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes – Learn how to prevent glue failures and ensure top-notch quality.
🛠️ Why Is Glue So Important in Shoemaking?
Shoemaking is a craft of precision, and adhesives play a huge role in how well a shoe holds up over time. The type of glue you use depends on factors like material type, shoe construction method, and flexibility requirements. If you’ve ever had a shoe fall apart or noticed weak spots in your construction, the problem might be in your adhesive choice.
For example, some glues provide instant adhesion, while others require heat activation or extended curing times for maximum strength. Choosing the wrong glue can lead to weak joints, stiffness, or even discoloration on materials like suede and fabric.
In this live tutorial, we’ll help you understand the science behind adhesives and teach you the best techniques for gluing different shoe components, including:
✔ Outsoles – How to properly bond rubber, leather, or EVA soles to your shoe.
✔ Uppers – Preventing peeling and ensuring a lasting hold.
✔ Insoles & Linings – The right adhesives to secure comfort layers inside the shoe.
✔ Edge Sealing – Techniques for making glued edges look clean and professional.
👞 Who Should Watch This Live Tutorial?
This live is perfect for:
✅ Aspiring shoemakers looking to improve their craftsmanship.
✅ Experienced artisans who want to refine their adhesive techniques.
✅ Leatherworkers & DIY enthusiasts interested in durable bonding methods.
✅ Shoe repair specialists who need strong, long-lasting fixes.
No matter your skill level, this session will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips that you can apply immediately in your shoemaking projects.
📢 Don’t Miss This Exclusive Live Session!
This is your chance to ask questions in real-time, see hands-on demonstrations, and get expert guidance on selecting the best glue for your projects. Turn on notifications, set a reminder, and join us live!
📅 Date & Time: [Insert Live Date & Time]
📍 Where: Right here on YouTube!
👉 Before the Live Begins, Read More Here:
For a detailed guide on shoemaking adhesives, check out this article:
🔗 Shoemaking Glue Guide
https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/shoe-making-supplies/shoes-glue/")
