I write this post about a much moe interesting topic, than being a Master Shoemaker – being an apprentice.
I always get question from students: what they need? How should they prepare? Is there any previous experience needed? etc.. So let’s talk about it! What you don’t need?
- EXPERIENCE. I prefer teach people without any previous experience, so don’t worry – you have better chance to learn shoe making with me, if you never had any other course. My demands are quite high – but easier to get close if you don’t bring any bad habits. It doesn’t mean that I don’t respect other masters’ ways, but I have my own ones.
- TOOLS. You don’t need to bring any tools or materials – except if you want to share some info or just ask me something.
- EGO. No, I am not talking about your ego. I am talking about your EGO. Please leave it at home,and be open to learn and humble to accept instructions. That is the easiest way to learn.
And what you will need:
- ENTHUSIASM. If you really wan’t to learn, this is the first.
- RESPECT. To your teacher, to the workshop, to the tools and machines and to the CRAFT. Respecting your tools seems to be starnge, but it isn’t – they are sharp, pointy and sometimes very-very old. You don’t want to break something, what is older than your grandparents don’t you? The CRAFT – the methods I will teach you, are hundreds years old. They must be kept like they are: sophisticated, refined, effective. You wouldn’t accept a simplified Bach sonata, would you?
- BRAIN. This is Europe, we don’t chew the food instead of you – sometimes you have to find solutions. Take it as a chance to learn this. You will face many problems at home, when you start making shoes (like my students usually do). I won’t be there to help you.
And mainly that’s it. I was honest about the details -appreciate it. Good luck for learning this beautiful craft!
ps. Actually I almost booked all the dates in the first helf year for students. Be quick if you want to come, or prepare yourself for a trip to NYC in April-May!
Hi! I find your main website and this blog through your youtube videos… This has been something I’ve been wanting to learn for a while but I have put the dream on the backburner cos there never seemed to be any courses offered around me (in Australia)!
I wanted to ask:
– Is it possible to continue shoemaking on my own at home after an apprenticeship with you? I’m guessing that there might be an issue getting our own tools and materials?
– What’s the maximum period of the apprenticeship?
– I haven’t really looked into getting into this as a career or anything, it’s more of a hobby. Is it too expensive a hobby to maintain??
hi this is cool
Hi, i’m really interested in shoe making and was wondering how could i enroll in apprenticeship with you?
Hi,
Contact me on mail I will give you some options
Australia does have shoe making courses. I am currently at Tafe in Adelaide learning how to make shoes!
RMIT in Melbourne also has a course.
Hi, I would love to be one of your apprentice in shoe making, how can I get in touch with you pls.
When is next workshop/ apprenticeship how do I enroll and are there fees involved? Thanks.