The Business of Making Shoes:
We will share with you the details of capital investment, as well as cost analysis and production scheduling, so you can supply realistic numbers to your business plan for future developments or expansion programs.

The Foot:
The basic relationship of the foot to the rest of the body. How the foot works with an emphasis on how the foot relates to the function of the shoe.

The Shoe Last:
The solid form that a shoe is molded on is called a “Shoe Last”. The most important aspect of proper fitting footwear is the design, volume and shape of the shoe last.

Measuring & Fitting:
This is the first step to understanding the relationship of the foot and shoe.

Pattern Design & Grading:
A pattern shell for each last must be fit and graded to insure proper fit and function of the finished shoe. Style lines are applied to the pattern shell to create individual designs.

Cutting Dies Then & Now:
Steel Rule Cutting Dies are an essential element in the mass
production process. They are an exact copy of the pattern drawing. CNC Technology replaces these conventional tools with Water Jet Cutting, and Oscillating Knives.

Selecting Materials:
Each component is examined and analyzed, for proper application in regard to the function and style of the shoes being created. (upper & lining leather, insoles & outsoles, heel counters, toe boxes, etc.)

Insoles and Support:
One of the most important parts of a shoe is the bottom. This is the area of the foot that supports the entire weight and movement of the body.

Hand Tools & Machines:
An opportunity to observe Craftsmanship first hand, working with traditional hand tools and machinery used to make footwear.

CNC Tools & Machines:
We will explore the latest technology peripherals available for performing specific tasks.

Before the Workshop Begins

To qualify for this program we ask that you submit a detailed plan of the subject matter that you would like to cover during the workshop, preferably 3 weeks in advance.

We would like to have samples, photos, sketches or prototypes of the footwear you are intending to make, as well as an outline of how you plan to set up and operate your business.

As part of our preparation process we will need to have telephone conversations with you, and devote at least one day in preparation for your time here at the workshop, reviewing your documents, samples, or other materials that you may wish to submit.

When you arrive we will be prepared with the right information and demonstrations to focus on your project, and maximize your learning experience.

You Arrive at ShoeSchool

Overview of Manual Operations for each step and process in creating footwear.

We will make a complete shoe from original sketch to the finished unit, so the student can see every step of the operations first hand.

Understanding the basic relationship of the Foot, to the Shoe Last, and then on to the Finished Shoe.

We will explore the concepts of proper fit, as well as Designing Footwear & Selecting Materials for the 21st Century.

New business models are being created every day. We will Explore the Possibilities.

We will discuss and apply the technical data from Day 1 and Day 2 to your particular project.

Explore the management strategies and the financial planning required for operating a modern shoe manufacturing and marketing business in the 21st Century.

Questions and Answers, applying the information to your own business plan.