FAQ
The most frequently asked questions about shoes and my business
I’m not a doctor or certified in orthopedic shoe making and I can’t bill health insurance. I have made shoes for clients with bunions, flat feet, and many common conditions. I have also made shoes to accommodate orthotics. Depending on your particular situation, I may be able to work with you to make shoes. I will refer you to an orthopedic specialist if not. Contact me for details.
I offer instruction in many formats – from one-on-one private instruction to workshops and seminars. Please see Learn Shoemaking for more information.
I do not offer apprenticeships. In some cases, I can offer some mentorship if you are a student enrolled in a program that requires time and/or experience in the field. Contact me if you’re interested.
Please see the Custom Shoes page for current pricing.
From start to finish, making a pair of shoes can take 60 – 80 hours or more, depending on the materials, components, and type of construction. This is the time I spend making the shoes. The custom shoe process includes fitting, design, sourcing, part fabrication, etc. and plays out over a longer period of time. See below.
The process of fitting shoes to your specification, ordering premium materials and putting it all together for you can be extremely time consuming, so please understand that the process can take 9 months to a year or more to complete. See the Custom Shoes page for details.
I’m happy to work with you on shoe development projects at any scale of production. Contact me for me details.
Custom shoes can make a great gift, but it’s not a great surprise. For the custom shoe process to be successful, I will need to meet with in person with the person for who these shoes are intended and start with the usual consultation. Only if there is agreement to go forward after consultation will it be known if this can work out as a gift.
No. Custom shoes can indeed be made for you, but typically this process takes quite some time. It is not deadline driven process. The shoes will only be ready when they fit and are made to your satisfaction and mine. Please read up on what to expect and plan ahead.