Duration
5 Days
Cost
$2,800 $300
Class Size
3 Students

Have you ever wanted to make your own pair of leather shoes? Now is your chance. The Wilding Foundation is offering shoemaking workshops on Salt Spring Island designed for artists, craftspeople, and creative individuals interested in learning the craft of traditional shoemaking. Classes run twice a month with just 3 participants each, ensuring close mentorship and hands-on attention throughout the course. Each day runs from 9am to 5pm. This program is done in collaboration with the Salt Spring Island Public Library. Apply below and you will be notified as seats become available.

Over five intensive days, participants will learn the fundamentals of handmade footwear, including pattern drafting, leather selection and cutting, lasting and shaping, leather sewing, and finishing techniques.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained a solid foundation in traditional shoemaking, and leave with their own pair of handmade shoes!

* A half day before the course starts may be required so you can come in to have your foot measured and your shoe form customized. We won’t have time to do this during the week of classes.

Who should apply: We are looking for artists, makers, and creative practitioners. This opportunity is especially suited to people with experience in craft disciplines such as woodworking, textiles, leatherwork, metalwork, sculpture, or other material-based practices. No prior shoemaking experience is required. Curiosity, patience, and an interest in learning a new craft are the most important qualifications.

Apply

Applications are now open. With limited spots, demand is high. Tell us about yourself and your interest in the workshop. Selected participants will be notified as seats become available.

What kind of art, craft, or creative work do you do? Tell us about projects you've been involved in.
Do you live on Salt Spring Island? *
Are you applying as *
Application received. Thank you for your interest. We will review your application and be in touch by email.
Something went wrong. Please try again, or email us directly at info@wilding.org.
← All workshops