Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 14 hours ago
One Tool. Endless Uses. Why You Must Master the Shoemaker’s Rasp
If you want to make shoes professionally, you must learn how to utilize a shoemaker's rasp in your work. It is an absolute necessity with endless applications in the craft.
(And yes, you can now get this exact rasp and other essential tools in the full shoemaking toolkit we are about to offer!)
I also teach my students how to work with a Dremel drill. To be honest, 14 years ago, I was the first one to ever show how to use a Dremel in shoemaking when I was just getting started. I brought that technique over from my background in jewelry making, and now, everybody uses it.
But here is the truth: you cannot do everything with a Dremel.
You simply do not have the same kind of physical control. A Dremel can easily create unwanted divots and uneven curves, and sometimes it is actually harder to manage than a manual hand tool. Using a rasp might take a little more time, but it is far more accurate, gives you total control, and delivers much better results in the long run.
If you want your shoes to be comfortable, professional, and perfectly made, this is a master move you cannot skip. You need it for everything:
Shaping EVA soles, like we do in the Sneakers Course.
Customizing shoe lasts with cork and leather, like we do in the English Welted Brogue Oxford Course.
Shaping stacked leather heels, like we do in the Loafers Course.
We cover all of these techniques in deep detail.
Now, Before The Big Changes In the Program.......
Visit the How to Make Men's Shoes Bundle or head directly to the 2-Year ShoemakerPRO Program to learn more and see how you can get the full shoemaking toolkit to get you started!
Start learning here:
One Tool. Endless Uses. Why You Must Master the Shoemaker’s Rasp
If you want to make shoes professionally, you must learn how to utilize a shoemaker's rasp in your work. It is an absolute necessity with endless applications in the craft.
(And yes, you can now get this exact rasp and other essential tools in the full shoemaking toolkit we are about to offer!)
I also teach my students how to work with a Dremel drill. To be honest, 14 years ago, I was the first one to ever show how to use a Dremel in shoemaking when I was just getting started. I brought that technique over from my background in jewelry making, and now, everybody uses it.
But here is the truth: you cannot do everything with a Dremel.
You simply do not have the same kind of physical control. A Dremel can easily create unwanted divots and uneven curves, and sometimes it is actually harder to manage than a manual hand tool. Using a rasp might take a little more time, but it is far more accurate, gives you total control, and delivers much better results in the long run.
If you want your shoes to be comfortable, professional, and perfectly made, this is a master move you cannot skip. You need it for everything:
Shaping EVA soles, like we do in the Sneakers Course.
Customizing shoe lasts with cork and leather, like we do in the English Welted Brogue Oxford Course.
Shaping stacked leather heels, like we do in the Loafers Course.
We cover all of these techniques in deep detail.
Now, Before The Big Changes In the Program.......
Visit the How to Make Men's Shoes Bundle or head directly to the 2-Year ShoemakerPRO Program to learn more and see how you can get the full shoemaking toolkit to get you started!
Start learning here:
![Cork & Shoemaking Techniques [CUSTOMIZING A SHOE LASTS 003]0](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pFTgGP4Umdo/mqdefault.jpg "Cork & Shoemaking Techniques [CUSTOMIZING A SHOE LASTS 003]0
🎥 New Shoemaking Podcast Alert! 🎥
Were diving into the third material for shoe last reshaping—cork! 🍂
In this episode, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of using cork, a versatile and natural material that’s easy to work with. From quick sanding to large-area customization, cork has its perks. But be cautious—its fragile and better suited for specific parts of the last.
Make sure to watch the full podcast and don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell for more shoemaking tips! 👞
#Shoemaking #ShoeLast #CorkReshaping #Craftsmanship")
![[LiVe]Watch This Amazing Boot Design with Folds – Created in Minutes](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pKgUJUh0XXQ/mqdefault.jpg "[LiVe]Watch This Amazing Boot Design with Folds – Created in Minutes
In this live session, I demonstrate how to create an intricate boot design with folds in just a few minutes. It might look complex, but when you understand the rules of pattern making, it’s simple and fast to bring your ideas to life.
Here’s what you’ll see:
Step-by-Step Boot Design: Watch how I design a stunning folded boot pattern effortlessly.
The Power of Knowledge: Learn why understanding the basics of footwear construction gives you the freedom to create anything you want.
Innovate with Confidence: See how mastering the rules of pattern making allows you to mix styles, design unique shoes, and work quickly without sacrificing quality.
This isn’t just about following steps—it’s about learning how to think creatively and work smart to bring your ideas to life.
🎥 Watch now to see how this amazing boot design came together.
Important NEWS:
In two weeks, I’ll launch my biggest Sale of the Year:
-9 Shoemaking Courses
-60% Off
-Extra Bonuses
-If you’ve been waiting for something special, this is it.
https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/on-line-courses/
📅 Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel for more shoemaking tutorials and tips!")
![[LIVE-Shoemaking] From Foot Measurments to Bespoke Shoemaking 📢MEGA COURSES SALE](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pmrAsWxFjDE/mqdefault.jpg "[LIVE-Shoemaking] From Foot Measurments to Bespoke Shoemaking 📢MEGA COURSES SALE
Understanding Shoe Lasts: The Key to `Bespoke Shoemaking
The shoe last is the foundation of every shoe, and understanding its role is essential for creating comfortable, bespoke, custom-made shoes. Unfortunately, standard shoe lasts are often a one-size-fits-all solution, designed with an average width. This creates a huge problem for most people, as their foot width doesn’t align with the last’s proportions.As a result, many of you are likely wearing the wrong shoe size—usually a size bigger—to compensate for the lack of width. This is why understanding and customizing shoe lasts is so important in shoemaking and bespoke shoemaking.
Here’s what we cover in this live stream:
1. What Defines a Shoe Last Size?
Shoe last size isn’t just about length. It also determines the structure and fit of the shoe, and its parameters form the basis of any footwear you design.
2. Why Shoe Last Width Is Just as Important as Size
The width of a shoe last plays a critical role in the overall comfort of the shoe. A poorly matched width can ruin both the design and functionality, making it essential to address this in custom-made shoes.
3. The Gap Between Foot and Shoe Last Measurements
Comparing foot measurements to shoe last measurements shows a significant difference. This is where customization comes in—adjusting a standard last to fit the unique dimensions of your feet.
4. Shoe Last Customization: The Core of Bespoke Shoemaking
Customizing a shoe last allows you to rebuild its shape based on your foot’s exact parameters, like width, instep height, and arch length. This ensures a perfect fit, comfort, and durability in your shoes.
5. The Best Toe Shape for Customization
Choosing the right toe shape is crucial when customizing a shoe last. Not all shapes are suitable for every foot type, and ignoring this step can compromise the final design and fit.
6. The Benefits of Leather Insoles
Leather insoles provide unmatched comfort and durability. They also allow for the addition of extra arch support, enhancing both the structure and feel of your shoes.
7. Why Leather Inner Reinforcements Matter
Leather reinforcements add flexibility and strength to your shoes, ensuring they maintain their structure while remaining comfortable.
8. Bespoke Shoes Deserve the Best Materials
If you’re already making bespoke shoes, don’t settle for anything less than the best materials. Natural leathers and high-quality sole constructions elevate your craft and ensure long-lasting results.
The Problem with Standard Shoe Lasts
Most standard shoe lasts are made with an “average” width, which often doesn’t match the real dimensions of your feet. This forces many people to wear bigger sizes to accommodate width, sacrificing proper fit and comfort. Customizing the last solves this issue, allowing you to create shoes that fit perfectly in both length and width.
This session is perfect for beginners and professionals alike who want to understand the art of shoemaking and the science behind custom-made shoes.
BIGGEST SHOEMAKING COURSES SALE OF THE YEAR – MEGA SALE!
When: December 17-20
This week, I’ll open enrollment for my beginner programs during the Biggest Sale of the Year!
Discounts of 50% & 60% on my top shoemaking courses.
From Beginners Shoemaking Courses to making handmade Bespoke Shoes.
🎉Special bonuses.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to invest in your skills, this is it.
My courses are designed to guide you step by step, whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your craft. Don’t miss out- Starts Tomorrow
https://www.shoemakingcoursesonline.com/on-line-courses/beginner-programs-sale/")
![[LIVE] Using Rubber and EVA Soles in Shoemaking](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q3X6VUUoXkw/mqdefault.jpg "[LIVE] Using Rubber and EVA Soles in Shoemaking
In today’s Live Shoemaking Tutorial, we’re diving into the practical use of rubber and EVA soles in shoemaking. These two materials provide excellent solutions for different types of shoes, and we’ll discuss their advantages, how to work with them, and how we use them in two of my shoemaking courses—the Sneakers Making Course and the Dr. Martens Boots Course.
What You’ll Learn in This Live Session:
✔️ Rubber Soles in Shoemaking – Why they are the go-to material for durability, traction, and protection.
✔️ EVA Foam Soles – How they offer lightweight flexibility, comfort, and easy shaping.
✔️ Using Rubber & EVA in Different Shoe Styles – How I used these materials in my Sneakers Making Course and Dr. Martens Style Boots Course to create both classic and modern shoe designs.
✔️ When & Why to Choose EVA Over Rubber (and vice versa) – Understanding which material suits which type of footwear and why.
Why This is Important for Shoemakers:
Both rubber and EVA foam offer cost-effective, functional, and versatile solutions for different footwear types. Whether you want to make comfortable lightweight sneakers or rugged, durable boots, knowing how to properly select and work with these materials is a must-have skill for any shoemaker.
📢 Join the Live Tutorial and Ask Questions!
This is a chance to learn directly from me and ask any questions you have about using rubber and EVA soles in your shoemaking projects.
🔗 Want to learn more? Check out my shoemaking courses:
➡️ Sneakers Making Course
➡️ Dr. Martens Boots Course
Don’t miss this live session! Subscribe to my channel, turn on notifications, and join me as we break down everything you need to know about rubber and EVA soles in shoemaking!")
