Category Archives: boot maker

Today’s work: shoe uppers and cowboy boot tops

More little birdies and butterflies and flowers are stitched.

I’m working on another small pair of shoes with teeny tiny birds and flowers. I’m ready to make shoes or boots for someone who’s a size 12 now, please.First photo: I’ve cut out all the shaped holes and skived them; … Continue reading →

The little birdie uppers are together and ready to be put on the last. I have one more pair of shoe uppers to make before I begin lasting though.

All the little birdies are stitched.

“Little birdie, little birdieWon’t you sing to me your songGot a short time to stay hereAnd a long time to be gone”

I cut out the shaped holes in the shoe quarters. Next I’ll layer in all those randomly-shaped bits like little colored puzzle pieces and they’ll become bluebirds and feathers.

I’ve been creating patterns for upcoming boots, and it’s one of my favorite things. For one, I truly enjoy patterning. But also, every time I make a pair of boots, there are always things I wish I’d done differently or … Continue reading →

I sold a pair of boots with this design today — different flower colors and alligator instead of ostrich. Every time I get to make this particular design it’s like spending time with an old friend whom I love.

A few weeks ago, a museum contacted me about an exhibit. They had a large selection of boot maker’s tools and needed to narrow it down to eight or ten to display in the exhibition. I gave my advice, but … Continue reading →