2. How to start

Sneaker making is a craft and a form of craftsmanship passed down from generation to generation. The problem is that this knowledge is hard to find.
And here is the answer to that question: start by gaining knowledge. Knowledge that is waiting for you right here. We have created a platform where you will find everything you need to create your own pair of sneakers.

In addition to knowledge, you will need a sewing machine, patterns &last, tools, and materials to create the upper. In this chapter, we will list the items you need to be able to sew your own custom pair of your favorite sneakers.

Sewing machine

A post-bed machine is designed for sewing uppers. Thanks to the post, which is characteristic of this type of machine, you can freely operate the stitching at any angle. The patterns themselves are flat, but when they are sewn together, a three-dimensional form with curves is created. The post allows these elements to be sewn together smoothly. An important feature is also the roller presser foot, which allows for smooth changes in the sewing angle.
A good alternative is also a cylinder arm sewing machine — a machine with a transverse arm.

Pattern and last

Lasts and patterns are the most important elements of the entire process. Thanks to properly constructed patterns created on the basis of appropriate and specially selected lasts, we can create a perfect upper. Various patterns and lasts circulate online, but it is worth using proven sources. If some elements do not match, you can forget about job satisfaction and it is very easy to become discouraged.

Along with the patterns, we provide instructions in which we explain step by step how to make each part.
Check our Patterns & last

Tools

Tools are an important element that makes the work easier. Using them is intuitive and does not require extensive experience. Tools can be divided into basic and additional ones, which are required for specific tasks but do not have to be included in every project.

Basic tools

Shoemaker’s hammer, Shoemaker’s pliers, Japanese leather knife, Heavy leather knives with blades, Lasting jack, Thread nippers, Hand eyelet punches for leather, Set of 3 cobbler’s awls, Crepe rubber, Bone folder & edge creaser, Heat gun, Dremel

Additional tools

Edge burnisher, Edge painting roller, Eyelet riveting machine,

tools store

Structural materials

Structural materials include items such as foams, heel counter material, toe puff material, lasting board, reinforcement for upper pieces, and waxed pig split leather for backing. These materials are essential if the shoes you create are to be comfortable, durable, and maintain the correct shape.

foams
reinforcements

Upper materials

This is where the magic begins. These materials are what make our designs unique. Leathers, meshes, fabrics, knits — all of these are components of the upper and at the same time its soul. Composition, color combinations, and mixing different material textures are incredibly fun.

Fabric, lining
Leathers
Mesh

Brass stamps

Leather stamping is a noble technique that allows us to apply our logo, the logo of a custom sneaker, our initials, or important phrases and numbers to a project. There are many techniques for using stamps. We can stamp into leather hot, wet, with flex foil, or with gold foil. All of this gives our project a professional look.

Brass Stamps

Threads and glue

The most indispensable and most appreciated glue among shoemakers is Renia. It is worth investing in this top-shelf product — it is not a big expense and will last for many projects. For beginners, I would recommend Renia Multicole.

As for threads, the standard size is size 40, and the range of colors is simply huge.

Threads

Summary

That’s basically everything you need. Remember—practice makes perfect 🙂 In the following chapters, we’ll discuss each of these elements in detail.

Shoemaking guide