How to become a shoemaker

Is becoming a shoemaker right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do shoemakers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are shoemakers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are shoemakers like?

Still unsure if becoming a shoemaker is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a shoemaker or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Shoemaker

Becoming a shoemaker involves a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience. Here are some steps to consider if you're interested in pursuing a career as a shoemaker:

  • Research the Craft: Take the time to learn about the art and craft of shoemaking. Explore different styles of footwear, materials, tools, and techniques used in shoemaking, and familiarize yourself with the history and culture of the craft.
  • Seek Education and Training: While formal education programs specifically for shoemaking may be limited, you can still acquire valuable skills and knowledge through workshops, courses, and apprenticeships offered by experienced shoemakers or shoemaking schools. Look for shoemaking courses or workshops available locally or online, and consider enrolling in programs that cover fundamental techniques and principles of shoemaking.
  • Practice and Develop Skills: Practice your shoemaking skills regularly to hone your craft and develop proficiency in various techniques, such as patternmaking, cutting, stitching, lasting, and finishing. Start with simple projects and gradually work your way up to more complex footwear designs as you gain confidence and experience.
  • Gain Hands-On Experience: Seek opportunities to gain hands-on experience in shoemaking through apprenticeships, internships, or work-study programs with experienced shoemakers or shoe repair professionals. Learning directly from seasoned practitioners can provide invaluable mentorship, guidance, and insight into the practical aspects of the craft.
  • Build a Portfolio: Document your shoemaking projects and creations to build a portfolio showcasing your skills, creativity, and craftsmanship. Include photographs, descriptions, and any relevant details about the materials, techniques, and inspiration behind each piece.
  • Establish Your Business: Decide whether you want to operate as an independent shoemaker, join an existing shoe repair shop, or pursue other business models for selling or showcasing your footwear creations. Consider factors such as location, target market, pricing, and marketing strategies when planning your shoemaking business.
  • Network and Collaborate: Build relationships with other shoemakers, artisans, suppliers, and potential clients within the shoemaking community. Attend industry events, workshops, and craft fairs to network, share ideas, and collaborate on projects with other professionals in the field.

Courses
There are various courses available that can enhance your skills, knowledge, and credibility in the field of shoemaking. Here are a few examples:

  • Chicago School of Shoemaking and Leather Arts: Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Chicago School of Shoemaking and Leather Arts offers a variety of workshops and courses in shoemaking, leatherworking, and related crafts. Their programs cover topics such as basic shoemaking, bootmaking, sandal making, and leather bag construction. While not offering formal certifications, completion of these courses provides valuable skills and knowledge in shoemaking and leatherworking.
  • Prescott & Mackay School of Shoemaking: Based in Ashland, Oregon, the Prescott & Mackay School of Shoemaking offers intensive shoemaking courses for individuals interested in learning traditional and contemporary shoemaking techniques. Their courses cover topics such as patternmaking, lasting, and finishing, with options for both beginners and experienced shoemakers. Completion of their courses demonstrates proficiency in shoemaking skills and techniques.
  • ShoeSchool: ShoeSchool, located in Port Townsend, Washington, offers comprehensive shoemaking courses and workshops for aspiring shoemakers and professionals. Their programs cover a range of topics, including patternmaking, construction techniques, and design principles. Participants receive hands-on training and instruction from experienced shoemakers, leading to a deeper understanding of the craft of shoemaking.
  • Pensole Footwear Design Academy: Pensole, based in Portland, Oregon, offers footwear design courses and workshops for individuals interested in pursuing a career in footwear design. Their programs cover concept development, sketching, prototyping, and material innovation, providing participants with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the footwear industry. While not offering formal certifications, completion of Pensole's courses can enhance a shoemaker's design skills and credentials.