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Shoemaking Classes NYC

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Unlock your creativity and learn the art of shoemaking with classes in NYC. Discover the techniques and skills needed to design and create your own unique footwear, gaining the confidence to step out in style.

12 classes have spots left

Introduction to Shoemaking

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Learn the art of shoemaking from artist and designer Emily Putterman-Handler at 92nd Street Y. Discover the basics of working with leather and shaping tools as you design and create your own stylish backless mule shoes. Perfect for beginners looking to explore the world of shoemaking.

(1061) Beginner 18 and older
$355

8 sessions

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Shoemaking: Ballerina Flats and Pumps (Intermediate)

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Take your shoemaking skills to the next level with this intermediate course at 92nd Street Y. Discover the art of creating beautiful ballerina flats and pumps, learning techniques such as pattern making, upper construction, and incorporating essential components for a professional finish. Collaborate with industry experts to ensure your creations are street-ready.

(1061) Intermediate 18 and older
$705

13 sessions

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1.5-day Slides & Mule Making Workshop

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Learn the art of shoemaking and create custom-designed mules at Brooklyn Shoe Space. Master the basics of modifying a standard mule pattern, cutting materials, and sole-ing your creations. All tools and supplies are provided for this beginner-friendly course.

(191) All levels 15 and older
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5-Day Intensive Shoe / Boot / Sneaker Making Workshop

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Learn the art of crafting your custom footwear at Brooklyn Shoe Space. From shoes to boots to sneakers, this intensive workshop will teach you the techniques and skills needed to design and construct your dream pair of shoes. Join us for this hands-on experience and let your creativity shine!

(191) Beginner 15 and older
$2,800

5 sessions

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Espadrille Making Workshop

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Craft your own stylish espadrille footwear tailored to your unique taste and fit in our workshop. From sandals to slides, immerse yourself in a day of stitching and creativity as you bring your design to life. With all materials provided and sizes available, step into summer with a personalized pair made by you.

(191) Beginner 15 and older

2-day Upcycle your Sneakers

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Elevate your commitment to sustainability at Brooklyn Shoe Space's Intermediate class. Dive into a two-day journey of transforming your old sneakers into unique, eco-friendly masterpieces. Learn advanced techniques like double straps or toe caps under the guidance of two experienced teachers, embracing a lifestyle where every step contributes to a greener future.

(191) Intermediate 15 and older
$580

2 sessions

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3-Day Stiletto

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Learn the art of crafting high heels from scratch in this intensive workshop at Brooklyn Shoe Space. Discover the secrets of design, pattern making, stitching, lasting, and more as you create stunning stiletto shoes. All materials and components are included.

(191) All levels 15 and older
$1,200

3 sessions

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2-hour Introduction to Shoe Making

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Discover the fundamentals of shoemaking, from footwear structure to measuring your feet, in this inspiring class. Gain the knowledge and motivation to design your own shoes and find the perfect lasts for a custom fit. Perfect for those looking to dive into the world of shoemaking or prepare for advanced footwear courses.

(191) Beginner 15 and older

Slipper Mule Making

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and creativity as you learn hand-sewn techniques for leather working in this unique class at Brooklyn Shoe Space. Create a pair of personalized slippers using high-quality materials included in the course. No prior experience is required, just bring your enthusiasm, and let's make some magic together.

(191) All levels 15 and older

Birkenstock Upcycling

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Revive your beloved Birkenstock sandals with expert guidance from Cobbler Bushwick Co at Brooklyn Shoe Space. Learn the art of upcycling as you transform worn soles with durable Vibram replacements and hand-stitched leather trims, ensuring longevity and sustainability for your footwear. Embark on a journey to breathe new life into your favorite sandals and acquire invaluable skills in footwear care.

(191) Beginner 15 and older

2-Day Hand Sewn Single Layer Leather Sneaker

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Learn to create beautiful and minimal sneakers in this hands-on class with Aaron Osborn at Brooklyn Shoe Space. Explore the art of hand-sewing leather to craft your own pair of chukka sneakers using a pattern template and high-quality leather. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!

(191) Beginner 15 and older
$680

2 sessions

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Baby Moccasin Making

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Discover the perfect addition to your child's wardrobe with this hands-on course. Craft soft and stylish leather moccasin boots for babies and toddlers, using high-quality materials and expert guidance. Gather a group of friends for a fun-filled afternoon of crafting and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

(191) All levels 15 and older
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Shoemaking: Oxford and Laced Boots (All Levels)

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Join artist and designer Emily Putterman-Handler in this unique course where you’ll learn the ins and outs of shoemaking! From design, to cutting and assembling, students will create and make a finished pair of wearable shoes. Pattern making, upper construction, toe puff, heel stiffeners, insoles and lasting will be covered. Emily will walk you through this craft through demos, hands-on activities, and handouts for sourcing materials. Finally,...

(1061) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$690

12 sessions

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Shoemaking: Ballerina Flats and Pumps (All Levels)

92nd Street Y @ 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY

Join artist and designer Emily Putterman-Handler in this unique course where you’ll learn the ins and outs of shoemaking! From design, to cutting and assembling, students will create and make a finished pair of wearable shoes in the ballerina flat or pump style. Pattern making, upper construction, toe puff, heel stiffeners, insoles and lasting will be covered. Emily will walk you through this craft through demos, hands-on activities, and handouts...

(1061) All levels 18 and older
No upcoming schedules
$715

13 sessions

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Shoemaking #002: Pattern Making

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 224 Roebling St, Brooklyn, NY

In this class, you will make a pattern for your own design. You will make both upper and lining patterns. This is a class you can take multiple times, depending on different designs you wish to create. Each style has a different pattern, and different tips and tricks. You can always come back for this class for your new designs!

(191) All levels 15 and older
No upcoming schedules
$400
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Thigh-high Boots Pattern Making

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 224 Roebling St, Brooklyn, NY

KINKY BOOTS?! One full day Thigh-high boots pattern making class with Marcell. Using a 4 inch heel last, Marcell will guide you through how to measure your feet and legs, up to the thighs, and create your very own thigh high boot pattern. This class is for intermediate, for someone who has made patterns before, or have taken the basic pattern class the day prior. It is a great start to create your pattern, cut the materials between the next classes,...

(191) All levels 15 and older
No upcoming schedules
$600
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DIY Espadrille Shoes Workshop

Brooklyn Craft Company @ 165 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY

Make your own summer espadrille shoes in this amazing new workshop. In one lovely Sunday afternoon, you'll craft a custom pair of real shoes from start to finish, featuring your choice of custom colorful fabric uppers. You won't believe how easy it is. In this workshop you will: Cut, reinforce, and sew the lined fabric upper portion of the shoes on a sewing machine. Learn how to sew the lined fabric uppers to the pre-made woven jute soles...

(557) Intermediate 18 and older
No upcoming schedules

Intro to Upcycling your Sneakers!

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 87 Richardson Street, Brooklyn, NY

Discover the art of sustainable living as you bring new life to your old sneakers. Unleash your creativity and learn how to restore and personalize your footwear in this unique, hands-on class. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity!

(191) All levels 15 and older
No upcoming schedules
$390
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Make Your Own Sneakers

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 224 Roebling Street, Brooklyn, NY

Come and spend five days with us and make a pair for yourself! Jacob Ferrato of JBFcustoms will be visiting NYC to teach a Sneaker Making Class with us here at the Brooklyn Shoe Space. Class will move fast, and you should come focused and ready to work for the entire day. This class is to teach you basic techniques - it is your own responsibility to master them. We encourage every student to bring in sketches of shoes they'd like to make. (Sneaker...

(191) Beginner 15 and older
No upcoming schedules
$1,500

5 sessions

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Sneaker De-Con and Re-con

Brooklyn Shoe Space @ 224 Roebling St, Brooklyn, NY

This 5 day intensive course will focus on deconstructing and reconstructing sneakers. Taught by The Shoe Surgeon, you’ll learn everything from removing soles to deconstructing a shoe, patterning basics, sewing, and reconstructing an upper. You'll learn to skive, sand and a number of other techniques and best practices from one of the best. Day 1: Introduction to The Shoe Surgeon. A brief history on shoe making, and shoe brands that inspire us....

(191) All levels 15 and older
No upcoming schedules
$1,450

5 sessions

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Reviews for Shoemaking Classes in NYC

Shoemaking Classes in NYC are rated 4.6 stars based on 1,809 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Shoemaking: Oxford and Laced Boots (All Levels)

    Reviewed by Nancy a. on 9/15/2022
    It is my pleasure to assist you. First and foremost Emily is a brilliant instructor. This class will be enjoyable for anyone who has some background in sewing, pattern making, or the like. The reward is wonderful to know that you actually produced a pair of boots that you can wear out of the class and show off. My only suggestion would be a shopping trip with Emily to pick out your leather and other supplies. Not only would this be a fun outing (optional of course) but it would save the students a lot of time and money. Leather is very expensive so if you go with an expert she can recommend the proper leather to buy. Another fun part of the outing would be a chance to meet your teammates in a relaxed setting. I would highly recommend this class and am free if anyone has any questions.
  • DIY Espadrille Shoes Workshop

    Anonymous review on 8/1/2022
    I had a great time. The teacher was very kind and patient! wished there were spare sizes for fit properly…
  • 2-hour Introduction to Shoe Making

    Reviewed by Terry O. on 9/17/2019
    Great place, lovely people, had a great time and learned a good deal about the process.
  • 2-hour Introduction to Shoe Making

    Anonymous review on 2/9/2019
    It was an introductory class that got me hungry for more. Cool space too. Good vibes.
  • 1.5-day Slides & Mule Making Workshop

    Reviewed by Carson F. on 9/16/2018
    A fantastic experience! Bonnie- my teacher- was very thorough and helful. I can’t wait to take another class there. I highly recommend.
  • 3-Day Stiletto

    Reviewed by George B. on 5/21/2018
    i would do it againg! Bonnie taught us with so much patience and great skills. 100% recommended
  • 1.5-day Slides & Mule Making Workshop

    Reviewed by Caitlin P. on 4/16/2018
    This class was a ton of fun & packs a lot in for one day. Lots of choices for materials which are included in the cost of the class - although everyone in class was working from the same pattern, the finished shoes were all unique. The instructor Bonnie was wonderful at explaining the process & very helpful when anyone got stuck. Brooklyn Shoe Space is really cool, with regular members coming in to work while the class was going on - you could tell what a wonderful collaborative space it is, with everyone around enthusiastic about the work and sharing ideas & tips with each other. I have a feeling this won't be my last pair of shoes or my last visit to the space. This is a FULL day of work (and our class ran late as our instructor ensured that everyone left with a finished project) so come prepared for a marathon of making!
  • Slipper Mule Making

    Anonymous review on 8/7/2017
    The instructor was patient, helpful & preent, absolute doll! Great class, so much fun & a fabulous end product...will be takimg it again & bringing friends!
  • 1.5-day Slides & Mule Making Workshop

    Anonymous review on 6/19/2017
    My instructor Bonnie was the best. I showed up rather early so we chatted while she set up the class. It was very informative and she really helped us make some great shoes, rather than letting my sloppy work slide. It ended up taking us longer than the allotted time but she stayed and I'm glad she did. My shoes turned out beautifully and they look professionally made. I wore them out and they're comfortable too. I hope to take more classes soon!
  • 1.5-day Slides & Mule Making Workshop

    Reviewed by Ioana F. on 6/18/2017
    Very fun and super informative -- Bonnie was amazing! I made my first pair of shoes ^^ It's a full day class so expect to be on the tired side by the end of it.

Discover the Best Shoemaking Classes in NYC

Shoemaking is the craft and process of creating footwear, transforming raw materials such as leather, fabric, and various components into different styles of shoes. Shoemakers employ a combination of design, pattern-making, cutting, stitching, and assembly techniques in order to create each pair of shoes. Shoemaking is an intricate art form. It requires craftsmanship, understanding of material, and attention to detail. Shoemaking has been a practice for thousands of years, dating back to 7000 or 8000 BCE. Contemporary shoemaking encompasses everything from casual sneakers to high fashion heels. 

Why You Should Learn Shoemaking in NYC

Shoemaking is a unique hobby for anyone looking for a rich artistic pastime. Shoemaking is an artistic and expressive craft that allows one to bring unique ideas and designs to life. In shoemaking, artists have the freedom to experiment with different styles, colors, textures, and embellishments, resulting in unique footwear that showcases creativity. Shoemaking can also be a great social outlet. Through classes and affinity groups, aspiring and established Shoemakers can swap stories, talk shop, and develop stronger relationships as they create and dream together. 

Learning shoemaking in NYC specifically offers several advantages. Firstly, NYC has a rich history and a thriving footwear industry, making it a hub for shoemaking knowledge and resources. The city is home to renowned Shoemakers, designers, and shoe companies, providing opportunities for networking, mentorship, and exposure to industry professionals. NYC also offers a diverse and vibrant cultural scene, providing inspiration and exposure to various styles and trends. The city's fashion-forward environment encourages creativity and innovation in shoemaking, allowing learners to explore their own unique design aesthetic.

In-Person Shoemaking Classes & Schools in NYC

There are many courses available to someone interested in attending a shoemaking class in NYC. For example, the 92nd St Y has a class called Introduction to Shoemaking. In this concise and immersive class tailored for beginners, artist and designer Emily Putterman-Handler will guide you through the fundamentals of shoemaking. Through hands-on instruction, each student will gain proficiency in leather working techniques and the utilization of shaping tools to craft their own stylish backless mule shoes. This class serves as an ideal introduction to the art of shoemaking, setting the stage for further exploration in more extensive courses. The 92nd St Y is located in the heart of Manhattan, an easy commute for New Yorkers looking to build their shoemaking skills. 

The 92nd St Y also has a course on Shoemaking: Oxford and Laced Boots. In this series, students will create a pair of wearable shoes from start to finish. The course covers pattern making, upper construction, toe puff, heel stiffeners, insoles, lasting, and fitting the shoes with outsoles and heels. The instructor will guide you through demos, hands-on activities, and provide handouts for material sourcing.

The Brooklyn Shoe Space is also a great resource for aspiring Shoemakers. Located by Brooklyn’s McCarren Park, this center for Shoemakers is easily accessible from all NYC boroughs. One popular course is called Shoemaking #001: Introduction. This class offers a 2-hour theory session focused on footwear structure, material resources, and foot measurement techniques. It serves as a source of inspiration for designing your own shoes. While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to take this course before pursuing other footwear courses, as it covers essential basics and familiarizes you with shoemaking terminology.

The Brooklyn Shoe Space also provides a course on making baby shoes called Baby Shoe Making. Tailored for babies aged 6-9 months and new walkers aged 9-15 months, you'll have the opportunity to choose from different designs such as moccasin boots, slip-ons with elastic, or shearling slippers. These shoes will make a charming addition to your child's wardrobe, providing both comfort and style.

In the Brooklyn Shoe Space’s Espadrille Workshop you can create your own espadrille sandals, slides, or slip ons over the course of a single six-hour workshop. No prior experience is necessary, making this an accessible course for all aspiring Shoemakers. 

Finally, the Brooklyn Shoe Space also provides an intensive five day course called 5-Day Intensive Shoe / Boot / Sneaker Making Workshop. On the first day, you’ll learn about the theory and logistics of shoemaking. By the second day, you’ll delve into pattern-making and begin to design your shoes. You’ll also cut the leather according to your patterns and begin stitching (no prior stitching experience is necessary). The fourth day will focus on constructing your shoes and inserting toe puffs and heel counters. On the final day, students will sole their new creations. 

Virtual Shoemaking Classes & Schools

Learning shoemaking online offers flexibility and convenience, allowing learners to access materials at their own pace and from any location. Online platforms provide a diverse range of courses and instructors, often at a lower cost. In-person classes offer hands-on experiences, immediate feedback, and opportunities for collaboration with peers. However, they may be limited in availability and require physical attendance. The choice between online and in-person learning depends on individual preferences and circumstances, but it may be difficult to find online shoemaking classes

If you aren’t able to find virtual shoemaking classes, then sewing, jewelry, and other craft classes can still bring you closer to your goal of becoming a shoemaker. For example, Sewing 101: Basics, a course hosted by the New York Sewing Center, can help you learn the fundamentals of sewing—an important skill in shoemaking. 

Santa Monica College’s Home Sewing Bootcamp also provides students with the ability to build sewing skills. In this class, students will either be introduced to or reacquainted with their home sewing machines. Topics covered include bobbin winding, threading, needle changing, tension balancing, stitching, and seam finishing. Students will also learn apparel construction concepts like interfacing application, sewing curves, seam allowances, and professional pressing. The class includes two projects: making a tote bag and creating drawstring shorts or pants.

Private Group Shoemaking Classes in NYC

Shoemaking provides a wonderful opportunity for team bonding and group activities. It allows you to connect with one another while creating personalized and wearable memories. If you're interested in shoemaking classes in NYC for private groups, you can reach out to CourseHorse via their website's contact form to explore available options. With CourseHorse, you have the flexibility to adjust your group size as required, receive confirmation within 24 hours, and avoid unnecessary booking fees. CourseHorse is accessible across multiple platforms, making it convenient to book from anywhere.

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