Learn the age-old art of being a cordwainer. Using the original patterns designed in the mid-1930s by Paul and Edward Mathews of The Cordwainer Shop, Molly will teach you to hand-stitch and hand-lace a custom pair of Cordwainer Classics of the same design worn by Hollywood legends such as Caesar Romero, Shirley Temple, Mary Pickford, and the original Henry Ford. Class will begin with a brief presentation on the history of the business and the original designs. Then we will move on to leather and color selection, cutting of patterns, and hand-lacing using antique hand tools. The uppers will then be laced to the soles, placed on shoe lasts and baked before finishing. Made of non-synthetic materials, students' handmade, one-of-a-kind shoes will only get better with time and last a lifetime with care. NOTE: Due to materials preparation needs and sizing, students must register for this course six weeks in advance.

Required Tools

All required tools/materials are provided by your instructor and North House and will be available once the course begins.

Please note:  Due to materials preparation needs and sizing, students must register for this course at least four weeks in advance. Registration for this session closes on May 22, 2023.