I started working with leather to solve a problem ..

that was very personal to me—I couldn’t find anyone selling the kind of comfortable, durable, and simple leathergoods I needed. It all began with crafting carpentry tool pouches tailored to my requirements. One day, my wife jokingly asked if I could make her a pair of shoes. At first, that seemed completely impossible. But as I dove into research and started practicing, making some of the ugliest shoes imaginable, I discovered the incredible comfort of bespoke shoes made on a custom shoe last. Over time, I refined my skills and created styles that looked more “normal” while maintaining that perfect custom fit. These shoes could be resoled and kept going strong for years. Making a few pairs as gifts for others was another valuable learning experience that helped me grow even more in this craft.

Seeking out experienced shoemakers to gather more knowledge from their training has been an invaluable journey. By learning directly from masters of the craft, I’ve gained deeper insights into the intricate techniques and artistry involved in shoemaking. As my passion has become more widely known, I’ve come to realize that many people would love to own personally designed and handmade shoes, if only they could afford them. This revelation has inspired me to explore ways to make custom, high-quality footwear more accessible without compromising on craftsmanship.

Here’s my little secret: I don’t do shoemaking full-time. But I love doing it. So, if after you look around some of my past projects, you’re interested in talking about the shoes you’ve always wished you could get, I’ll tell you the deal.