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There are a variety of materials required to make shoes, including leather, glue, insoles, and threads. These materials can be sourced from local suppliers or online retailers, depending on your location and preferences. In Australia, several brands offer sustainably and ethically made shoes, such as Radical Yes, Emu Australia, and Nelson Made, showcasing their commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical production practices. With a focus on using materials like vegetable-tanned kangaroo leather and recycled cardboard packaging, these brands are leading the way in the Australian shoe industry. Additionally, there are local shoemakers and artists who create unique handmade shoes with a mindful approach to aesthetics and sustainable materials, further contributing to the diverse landscape of shoe production in Australia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Materials | Leather, textiles (cotton, polyester, wool, and nylon), synthetics, rubber, foam, wood, plastic, jute or other plant material |
| Tools | Scissors, shears, die-cutting tools, grommet machines |
| Brands | Emu Australia, Nelson Made, Radical Yes, Kuwaii, Beccy Bromilow, Matea Gluscevic, UGG Since 1974, aciae, Twoobs, P.S.S |
| Price Range | $79-$449 |
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What You'll Learn
Leather
Some brands, like EOS Footwear, craft women's boots with buttery-soft leather for a stylish and timeless aesthetic. Their boots, such as the AURA and Thea Women's Chelsea Boots, are designed with a supple leather upper, providing both comfort and functionality.
Additionally, brands like Radical Yes and Kuwaii from Melbourne offer customisation options for their leather shoes, allowing customers to choose their preferred colours. Radical Yes produces ballet flats, lace-ups, and boots, while Kuwaii offers leather and vegan platform sandals, lace-ups, and boots.
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Textiles
In modern times, textiles are often used in combination with other materials, such as leather, rubber, or foam, to create durable and comfortable footwear. For example, the brand Veja produces environmentally friendly sneakers made with raw materials sourced from organic farming and ecological agriculture, including quality cotton, rubber, and leather.
Some shoe brands are also committed to using sustainable and ethically sourced textiles in their production processes. For instance, Nelson Made uses leathers, linens, and rubber soles sourced with the "lowest possible environmental and human impact while still being suitable for footwear production." Similarly, a Sunshine Coast designer uses kangaroo leather that is sustainably sourced for their range of sandals and brogues.
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Synthetics
Synthetic materials are human-made substances that serve as alternatives to natural resources. They are designed to be more durable, versatile, and cost-effective than their natural counterparts. In the context of shoemaking, synthetics play a significant role in creating footwear that is affordable, accessible, and capable of meeting diverse consumer demands.
Synthetic materials commonly used in shoemaking include various types of textiles, such as polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fibres. These textiles offer advantages in terms of moisture management, breathability, and ease of care. Shoes made from synthetic textiles are often lightweight, flexible, and suitable for athletic activities or everyday wear.
Another commonly used synthetic material in shoemaking is synthetic leather, also known as faux leather or vegan leather. This material is designed to resemble genuine leather in terms of appearance and texture but is created using synthetic fibres or plastics. Synthetic leather is widely used as a more affordable and animal-friendly alternative to genuine leather. It is often used in the production of shoes, bags, and other fashion accessories.
The use of synthetic materials in shoemaking offers several benefits. Firstly, synthetics can provide enhanced durability and resistance to wear and tear. Synthetic shoes are often designed to withstand harsh conditions and may be more suitable for outdoor activities or heavy-duty use. Additionally, synthetic materials offer design versatility, allowing for a broader range of colours, styles, and textures. This versatility appeals to consumers who seek unique and fashionable footwear options.
Furthermore, synthetic materials contribute to cost-effectiveness, making shoes more affordable for consumers. The production of synthetic materials can be more economically efficient than relying solely on natural resources, which may be scarce or expensive. This affordability aspect of synthetic shoes ensures that footwear is accessible to a wider range of individuals.
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Sustainable materials
Sustainable shoes are often made from recycled materials, such as recycled plastic, rubber, cotton, linen, hemp, bamboo, ramie, coconut, cork, nettle, and wool. Recycled plastic is made into microfiber and polyester for shoe uppers and liners, reducing the environmental impact compared to new plastic. Recycled rubber is another common material used for its low environmental footprint and biodegradability. Natural plant fibres are also used, such as corn and potatoes, for their renewability and weight reduction.
Some shoes are made from plant starch, which is a mixture of sturdy plant material and fillers, creating a durable building material. Plant starch is a highly sustainable alternative to plastics and metals, which require high-impact extraction.
Cork is another eco-friendly, naturally renewable, and replenishable material. It is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees without harming the tree, and it can be recycled and is biodegradable.
Brands like Timberland Pro, Allbirds, and Veja have incorporated recycled materials and responsible manufacturing practices into their production process.
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![Shoe Insoles, Memory Foam Insoles, Providing Excellent Shock Absorption and Cushioning for Feet Relief, Comfortable Insoles for Men and Women for Everyday Use,(L [US M: 9.5-12.5/W: 10.5-13.5])](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61j+MHDNv0L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Tools and equipment
Shoemaking requires a variety of tools and equipment, some of which are specific to the craft, while others are more general. Here is a list of some essential tools and equipment for shoemaking in Australia:
Lasting Pliers and Posts
An important tool in shoemaking is a pair of lasting pliers. These are used to hold and manipulate the shoe during construction, especially when attaching the upper to the sole. Lasting posts are also used for this purpose and are available for beginners and professionals.
Welting Board
A welting board is used to fix the shoe in place with the bottom up, making it easier to work on and ensuring precise and clean stitches.
Scraper
A scraper is an essential tool for smoothing the sole edges and heels of a shoe. This process is usually done right before dyeing, waxing, or burnishing.
Fudge Wheel
The fudge wheel is a basic hand tool used in shoemaking. It is short and light, making it easy to guide around the welt—the strip of leather that runs along the shoe's perimeter.
Channel Opener
A channel opener is a fundamental tool used to open and shape channels in the shoemaking process. It is particularly useful for creating holdfasts and stitching channels.
Knives
Shoemakers require special knives, such as the welt knife, which is used to trim the welt and bevel leather edges. These knives are available for both right- and left-handed craftsmen.
Hammers
Hammers are essential in shoemaking for driving nails, shaping, and adjusting various parts of the shoe.
Stitching Equipment
Shoemaking requires various tools for stitching, including needles, thread, and awls. These tools are used for both hand and machine stitching.
Measuring Equipment
Precision measuring equipment is crucial for achieving the right fit and ensuring consistency in shoe sizes.
Leatherworking Tools
For working with leather, specific tools are needed, such as cutting and carving equipment, edgers, and hole punches.
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Frequently asked questions
The most common materials used in shoemaking are leather, textiles (cotton, polyester, wool, and nylon), synthetics, rubber, and foam (open and closed-cell foam). Other materials include glue, insoles, and threads.
Suppliers of shoemaking materials in Australia include Common Stitch, I Can Make Shoes, and Cross-Shoe Store.
Some popular shoe brands that source their materials sustainably in Australia include Nelson Made, Emu Australia, Kuwaii, Matea Gluscevic, and Beccy Bromilow. These brands prioritize sustainability, ethical production, and the use of recycled and natural materials.
