Shoe Making Sneakers Short Course

The Shoe Making Sneakers Short Course covers all aspects of the design and making of a pair of casual sneakers. During the course, students create their own design and draw onto the last a men’s or women’s casual sneaker. Students develop new pattern techniques, select upper materials and construct their own unit/sole. They begin by sketching their sneaker design onto the last and forming their pattern before moving onto the making process. Through a series of demonstrations and practical exercises, students are guided through the making process. They learn the skills needed to identify the different upper materials and hand cutting techniques involved. Students also gain an insight into the different types of edge treatments. The course covers a wide range of topics, including materials and leathers, terminology, foot anatomy, pattern cutting, preparing the insole, lasting (shaping the leather), and attaching the sole unit. Students also learn how to click (cut leather by hand) and prepare and fit the many components involved such as the linings, insoles, stiffeners and sole units.