Lisa Sorrell, cowboy boot maker

I have one (1) of the four (4) bluebird top panels stitched. This is going to take a while.

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; off to the left you can see bits of leather that will go in the holes.
Second photo: Some of the leather colors are in place. I forgot to grab some of the colors when I selected the leather, so I’ll do that tomorrow.

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 birdie
Won’t you sing to me your song
Got a short time to stay here
And 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 better. At this stage the tantalizing promise of perfection still exists. Maybe this is the time I’ll make a perfect pair of boots!

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.