Shoe Making Sneakers Short Course

About this course

Participants develop a casual sneaker design, sketch it onto a last and create the associated pattern. The course covers selecting suitable upper materials, hand cutting, clicking and closing, along with edge treatments and the preparation of components such as linings, insoles and stiffeners. Tutor demonstrations and guidance accompany the making process, including the construction of a unit or sole using existing materials. Participants also work with industrial machinery and sewing equipment used for leather footwear production.

What you'll learn

• Develop a casual sneaker design on a last and produce a corresponding pattern
• Identify leather and other upper materials suitable for a sneaker design
• Apply hand cutting and clicking techniques to footwear materials
• Prepare and fit components including linings, insoles, stiffeners and sole units
• Use edge treatments and construction techniques in making a sneaker

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for adults aged 18 and over, including complete beginners and learners who want to extend existing knowledge. Participation involves developing and making an individual sneaker, with tutor guidance throughout the process.

• No previous experience is needed
• The course is focused on making rather than footwear design alone
• The sneaker style is determined by the capabilities of the studio

Before you go

• Participants select their own upper materials, while existing materials are used for constructing the sole unit.
• Access is provided to industrial footwear-making machinery, including skiving and leather sewing machines.
• It may not be possible to make the shoe in the participant's desired size.