Gift Shop

Handcrafted Gifts Personalized & Embossed Leather Accessories

Workshops

Introduction to Shoemaking Business of Shoemaking Cottage Industry Project Distance Learning

Purchase Videos

Introduction Video Sampler Home Study Programs

Books

Fashion & Design Shoe Knowledge History & Art How To....

Supplies

Hand Tools - Leather Soles - Components

Equipment

Sewing Machines Cutting Equipment Finishing Stations

Shoe Last Library

Designer Models Production Size Runs

Schedule

Workshops - Hands On Private Consulting Office Hours

Registration

Registration Information Applications

FAQ's

Who Is the Workshop For? Where & When?

Links

Web Related Sites

Short Stories

Short Stories About Shoes

Return to Homepage

Return to Last Library

Q: What is a Shoe Last ? A: The solid form around which a shoe is molded... The fit of a shoe depends on the design, shape and volume of the Shoe Last. The shoe last must represent the anatomical information of the foot, at the same time giving the finished shoe a pleasing and fashionable appearance. Chart showing the main parts of a " Shoe Last " Each "shoe last " is designed for a particular heel height, toe shape, and type of footwear. Many styles of shoes can be made on the same shoe last , but the toe shape and heel height will be the same for each pair made on that shoe last. If you want to have shoes with different toe shapes, then it is necessary to create more than one pair of shoe lasts. A proper fitting pair of shoe lasts is a solid investment, and the first step towards creating proper fitting and fashionable footwear. 3 Different Shoes Made on the same " Shoe Last " Notice how each Shoe Last in this collection is designed for a different Heel Height & Profile. Examples : Top Left = Western Boot Bottom Right = Flat Moccasin In this picture, each drawer contains a complete size run for that style of shoe last. Traditionally, shoe lasts were made of hardwoods, such as Maple or Beech. Modern day shoe lasts are made of high density plastics, that are 100% recyclable. Craftsmen's Shoe Last Collection