Step One
Taping Design
Paper tape is applied to a shoemaking last to visualize and plan the shoe's design. Craftsmen sketch design elements, mark seam lines, and create patterns directly on the tape-covered last. Once satisfied, patterns are transferred to chosen materials, and the shoe components are crafted accordingly.
Step Two
Pattern Making
Once the design is finalised and patterns are created using the paper tape, shoemakers transfer these patterns onto a sturdier material such as tin or aluminium. The actual shoe components are then cut and assembled in leather based on these patterns. Consider these patterns as "stencils".
Step Three
Component Cutting
Precision is crucial in the cutting process. Craftsmen use their skills to hand-cut leather according to the hard patterns (stencils). This step requires a keen eye and a steady hand to ensure accuracy.
Step Four
Component Detailing
Details like punching medallions and jimping (designer edges) are added to the components. This step is for ornamental purposes, but it gives the components beautiful details.
Step Five
Closing, aka Stitching
Skilled craftsmen use needles and threads to stitch together the different components of the shoe, providing strength and durability. The resulting piece is called an upper.
Step Six
Lasting
Lasting involves molding the upper part of the shoe around a form called a last. Think of last as a piece of wood or plastic shaped like a human foot. Lasting gives the shoe its final shape and structure. It is a crucial step in achieving a comfortable fit.
Step Seven
Sole Pasting
Escaro Royale takes pride in building mostly Blake Stitched and Goodyear Welted footwear. These are gold standards in footwear construction and require precision to ensure a secure and long-lasting bond. Here we show adhesive application before the sole is attached and stitched in next step.
Step Eight
Channel Stitching
Channel stitching is a technique in leatherworking where a groove is created in leather, and then stitching is done within that groove. This method is often employed for aesthetic purposes or to protect stitching from wear and tear. It's commonly used in leather goods such as bags, belts, and shoes.
Step Nine
Coloring and Detailing
Hand coloring shoes is a meticulous process that involves manually applying colors, oils and dyes to the leather surface. This artisanal technique allows shoemakers and craftsmen to achieve unique and customized finishes, adding character and individuality to each pair of shoes.
Step Ten
Polishing & Buffing
Finishing touches, such as polishing, smoothing edges, and applying dyes or treatments, contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the shoe. Craftsmen may also add decorative elements or hand-painted details.
Step Eleven
Final Finishing
Finishing touches, such as polishing, smoothing edges, cutting excess thread and applying dyes or treatments, contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the shoe. Craftsmen may also add decorative elements or hand-painted details.
And Behold!
A finely made product is ready from the house of Escaro Royale - and is now ready to be packed and shipped to the deserving connoisseurs of handmade luxury.
