I am looking for a long apprenticeship with a master shoemaker in the Olympia, WA/Puget Sound area. I have considered a short stint with a shoemaker--as many short classes are offered in the area--and yet I don't think I would learn all I need to know in such a short time (typically 5-21 days). I don't know anyone who can master such a complex craft in such a short period without additional support--at least I can't.
I have many of my own tools and two industrial singers already (31-15 and 29K) and a copy of Golding...I am ready to go!
I am so dedicated and serious student I have even started making my own leather and have successfully tanned (and sold) several bark tan and brain tan sheep and deer hides, some of which I butchered myself. My goal is to make the bulk of the materials of the shoes I design and stitch together myself. (I recently made my own dye with black walnut and oak galls). If you can help me with my goals let me know!
coraxcorvid at gmail.com
Thanks, Dennis