Please sign up for this workshop on the Wilder Arts site HERE

Learn to make your own pair of handmade leather sandals in this one-day workshop led by Stace Fulwiler Wood. No previous experience necessary, and this class is open to all over the age of 16.

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. Stace works to revive this lost artisan craft by teaching one-day sandal making workshops, allowing complete beginners to make their very own pair of handmade leather sandals.

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.

Details:

Where: Wilder Arts Studio, 7 Main St, Montpelier, VT 05602

When: Sunday May 19 from 9am - 3pm

What to bring: Water, snacks, lunch (we will take a brief lunch break and there are a few options nearby for takeout). Wear clothing that is easy to move & work in as we will be bending, kneeling, crouching, standing & sitting as we make our sandals and build them to fit our feet. It’s a good idea to wear shoes/sandals that are easy to get in & out of as we’ll be getting barefoot often!