Shoe Making Pumps or Heels Short Course

About this course

Participants explore foot anatomy and measurements using a contemporary last, then develop a pattern for a selected heel or ballet pump style. The course covers the stages of constructing a completed shoe, combining demonstrations with making in the workshop. Learners use industrial machines and are introduced to hand-cutting and stitching techniques associated with bespoke shoemaking. Although the course is not focused on shoe design, participants can make choices about style and add trims or embellishments. The final shoe style is limited by the capabilities of the studio.

What you'll learn

• Measure a foot using a contemporary last
• Create a pattern for a heel or ballet pump style
• Apply construction processes used to make a completed pair of shoes
• Use industrial shoemaking machinery
• Practise hand-cutting and stitching techniques used in bespoke shoemaking

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners interested in making heels or ballet pumps, including those with no previous experience and those extending existing shoemaking knowledge. Participation involves developing a pattern and making one pair of shoes, with the choice limited to either heels or ballet pumps.

• Beginners are welcome, regardless of prior experience
• The course is not a shoe-design course
• Learners make either heels or ballet pumps, rather than both

Before you go

• Leather for the shoes is provided. Learners may instead choose to buy their own leather with guidance from the tutor.
• The requested shoe size may not always be possible to produce.
• The shoe style is determined by the capabilities of the studio.