For ages 16+

Learn to make your own pair of handmade leather sandals in this one-day workshop led by sandal-maker Stace Fulwiler Wood. No previous experience necessary.

Leather sandals have been worn for centuries, and for good reason: they are durable, breathable, comfortable, repairable and grow more beautiful with wear and age. Sandal making shops used to exist in many towns & cities throughout the US, though this craft has grown rare as shoe production is now mostly overseas.

You will start by choosing from a handful of simple sandal designs. Stace will show you how to modify the design to your unique feet, taking into consideration your bone structure and arch height. You will learn how to shape the leather soles to your arch, attach a stacked leather heel, and use leather-working tools to cut your insoles and straps.

Stace will bring a selection of neutral leather colors (browns, black, tan, caramel) as well as more colorful pieces to accent your sandals. Mixing and matching is encouraged! You will learn how to strategically place your sandal straps to create the most comfortable sandal for your unique foot, and how to select the correct weight of leather for your specific sandal design.

You will learn how to use shoe glue and brass tacks to construct your sandals, resulting in a sturdy pair of sandals that you can wear for years to come. Once your sandals are assembled, Stace will finish them outside on a belt sander and…. Voilà! You’ve made your first pair of leather sandals. You will be able to walk out of the workshop wearing your new shoes.

In addition to your handmade sandals, you will also take home an outline of the sandal making process, including a list of resources for shoemaking if you want to replicate the process at home. Stace will also provide instructions for ‘care and feeding’ of your sandals. 

Given the intricate and custom nature of the class, spots are very limited.

Sunday May 19th, 2023 9am-3pm