04-10-2009, 12:30 PM
The first pair is hard. The second is easier.
Yes, I use felt as a mock-up for the leather, and mess around with it until I get the sizing right, then flatten the felt back out and use it for a new paper pattern to transfer to the leather. The cardboard acts like a slightly stiff sole, to give the right shape to the shoe. Be sure to sew it near the edge, though, or you'll cut your uppers too loose. You do have to be a little careful not to stretch the felt, as it's not very dimensionally stable...being felted and not woven, naturally.
There are lots of posts by Lee Holeva and Martin Moser on RAT that detail the specifics of how it's done. No need to try to add to their excellent descriptions here...I'm still learning anyhow. I've gotten over the fear of slicing into a piece of leather, however, which is a big step.
Yes, I use felt as a mock-up for the leather, and mess around with it until I get the sizing right, then flatten the felt back out and use it for a new paper pattern to transfer to the leather. The cardboard acts like a slightly stiff sole, to give the right shape to the shoe. Be sure to sew it near the edge, though, or you'll cut your uppers too loose. You do have to be a little careful not to stretch the felt, as it's not very dimensionally stable...being felted and not woven, naturally.
There are lots of posts by Lee Holeva and Martin Moser on RAT that detail the specifics of how it's done. No need to try to add to their excellent descriptions here...I'm still learning anyhow. I've gotten over the fear of slicing into a piece of leather, however, which is a big step.
M. Demetrius Abicio
(David Wills)
Saepe veritas est dura.
(David Wills)
Saepe veritas est dura.
