The Journal
Inside Our Manufacture
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (10): Footbed and Shoe Trees
A removable, custom-made footbed enhances overall comfort, while wooden shoe trees help preserve the shape of the bespoke shoe.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (9): Finishing and Final Steps
During the finishing stage, the sole and heel of the bespoke shoe are meticulously refined – and the upper is treated with nourishing care and an optional color finish.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (8): Leather Heel and Anti-Slip Sole
The heel defines the look and function of a bespoke shoe. High-quality leather heels and anti-slip soles provide stability, comfort, and excellent practicality for everyday wear.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (7): Outsole Stitching
Outsole stitching joins the leather sole to the upper part of the shoe with a hand-sewn seam. This seam runs within a channel carved into the sole.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (6): Welting
Welting connects the insole, upper, and welt with a durable seam – a technically demanding step and a key element of traditional shoe bottom construction in bespoke shoemaking.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (5): Lasting
During the lasting process, the upper is pulled over the last and fixed – giving the shoe its shape. Hammering compacts the leather, smooths transitions, and refines the visual details.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (4): Insole and Toe/Heel Stiffeners
The insole and stiffeners give a bespoke shoe stability and shape. The insole connects the upper to the outsole, while stiffeners support the foot and maintain the shoe’s form.
How a Bespoke Shoe Is Made (3): Building the Upper
Cutting the upper parts by hand is followed by precise stitching, which connects the pieces into a stable, formable upper – the next step toward a finished bespoke shoe.