Shoemaking Courses

Shoemaking is one of the most enduring and technically demanding leather crafts, combining precision, material understanding and a deep appreciation of form.

From the earliest stages of pattern development through to the construction of a finished shoe, the process draws together a wide range of traditional skills. Each stage requires patience, accuracy and an understanding of how materials behave in both two and three dimensions.

At Walsall Leather Skills Centre, our shoemaking courses are designed to introduce and develop these skills in a structured and accessible way, whilst maintaining the standards expected within a traditional craft environment.

The series of courses allow students to engage with shoemaking at different levels, whether as an introduction to the craft, a focused technical study, or as part of a longer-term learning journey.

Each course is designed to stand alone, allowing students to join at a point which suits their experience and interests, whilst also offering the opportunity to build skills progressively over time.

Shoemaking sits at the intersection of design, engineering and hand skill. The techniques taught at the Centre reflect traditional methods which remain relevant today, providing a solid foundation for both personal development and professional application.

Who These Courses Are For

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Those new to shoemaking with an interest in traditional craft.

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Leatherworkers looking to expand their skillset into footwear.

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Individuals considering a career in shoemaking.

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Practitioners wishing to revisit or strengthen specific techniques.

Learning Pathways

The shoemaking programme offers three distinct study options, each of which can be taken independently:

Pattern Principles for Shoemaking
(2 days)

A focused introduction to the fundamentals of pattern cutting, exploring how a shoe is translated from a three-dimensional last into workable two-dimensional forms.

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Traditional Shoemaking Techniques
(2 weeks)

A practical, hands-on course covering the key stages of constructing a pair of shoes, from lasting through to sole attachment and finishing.

Shoemaking Development Pathway
(3 year part-time study – in development)

A longer-term programme designed to support continued learning and skill development over time, allowing students to build confidence, refine techniques and work towards a recognised level of competence within the craft.

Each course is designed to stand alone, allowing students to join at a point which suits their experience and interests, whilst also offering the opportunity to build skills progressively over time.

Requirements and Prerequisites

Shoemaking involves the use of sharp knives, hammers and potentially unusual techniques. No shoemaking experience is required, however, some previous exposure to leather working will be useful. Please consider doing the introduction to leather work unit at the Centre if you are starting on your training journey. For further information about this contact patrick@walsall-leather.org

Knowing how to sharpen and maintain your tools will be an essential skill if you want to make a pair of shoes, so please consider our Tool Maintenance and Sharpening Course, at some point.