hoorayforaparade Report post Posted February 5, 2014 I was reading and watching a lot on shoe and boot making. I wanted to get into making my first pair of dress shoes or chukka boots but where I am having trouble is with the lasts. I don't know what model/style or size to get plus where to get them from. If anyone has any helpful knowledge or insights it'll be great. Neil. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
lordpoint Report post Posted February 5, 2014 Bootlast.com That's a good place to start at least. If you're not sure what you should get, just give them a call and describe what you're doing; they're very friendly and they'll help you find what you need. I was in pretty much the same boat about 3 or 4 months ago: read a bunch about shoemaking, watched the Andrew Wrigley series on YouTube, started looking for and pricing materials, I even started with a chukka. After making a few shoes on their lasts my only complaint is that the toe is a little bit narrow and pointy, but Bootlast are the only lastmakers (in the U.S.) that I was able to find who actually make their own lasts and can provide an entire range of sizes in the same style so I guess you've gotta take the good with the bad. I should also mention that they make their lasts on a copy lathe, so if you happen to come across an old pair that you like on e-bay or in an antique store and they're too beat up to use you can send them to Bootlast and they'll make you a brand new copy in plastic. If you're interested, I documented the process of making my first two shoes here: http://lordpoint.wordpress.com/ While I'm not really much further along than you are I'd gladly help in whatever way I could. If you have any other questions just send me a PM. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hoorayforaparade Report post Posted February 10, 2014 Thank you for your input. I am going to get in touch with that last company soon. This week I should be getting some cobbler tools from ebay in the mail. So when all those arrive, it's just getting the leather and off on the adventure I go. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Naomi Report post Posted February 13, 2014 Hi. I find the easiest way to get the correct size last is to get someone to trace both feet (most feet are different sizes). Use a thin pen or shave the side of a pencil so you are not including the size of the pencil in your tracing. If you can get to a place that sells lasts then it is simply a matter of holding the last against the tracing to get the correct size. If you are buying on-line then you can measure the length of you foot and use a size conversion chart. Allow about 10mm extra in the toe. I struggle with width sizing as I cant seem to find a chart that converts width. In regards to the style, I would suggest a classic men's style as a starter. I tend to choose my styles based on the shape of the toe. I too am just starting out. But there is nothing more rewarding than putting on a pair of shoes you have made yourself! Good luck!! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
