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Engineer Boots, Harness Boots...

kenucklehead

Familiar Face
Messages
55
Location
Vancouver
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OMG those are PERFECT!!!
What are they and WHERE can I get a pair!!!?!?!?!

Sorry, they're literally one of a kind. I made them.
 
Last edited:

kenucklehead

Familiar Face
Messages
55
Location
Vancouver
Thanks everyone for the positive comments. To answer some questions:

As this was my first attempt, I really took my time planning and designing the patterns, manually cutting the pieces, testing what it would take to last, laying out the parts, etc. I started the project back in November but there were weeks when I did nothing but let my head think about the logical next steps. As I started putting things together, I realized there was a chance I could end up with something wearable so the made me take my time even more. I imagine that for my next pair, it'll take less time but I do want to do a much better job so am now planning my tweaks.

The machine I bought sews leather but is probably not the right machine for the job. It's a Sailrite. Powerful for multiple layers of leather but it's a flat bed so that made stitching a bit difficult. I'm now seriously thinking of selling it and getting a Pfaff 1293. There were parts (i.e. the backstay) that I used my Sailright to punch holes and then literally hand stitched because there would have been no way to do that with the machine.

As I mentioned, I got the entire upper parts done and was ready to last and do the soles. This appeared to be a much more difficult process so I contacted a local bootmaker who was impressed enough to have guided me through the process of getting the soles done (they even provided the materials for exchange with a bottle of scotch. LOL!!). Therefore, I had access to some machines to press and stitch the soles and heels, as well as grind and polish them.

It was a really cool process. I simply like making things and have done various different creative projects with wood and of course, in the kitchen. Definitely thinking of a future in just making stuff.
 

torfjord

Call Me a Cab
Messages
2,800
Location
Sweden
So, here's the story behind the boots I made.

Having spent too much money on engineer boots over the years, I wondered how difficult it would be to make my own pair... to customize them to be just what I want. The photos I shared were of my first attempt to work in leather, let alone to make footwear.

I researched boot making web sites and tutorials and found a place to buy a last. Got some relatively cheap leather and buckles for my "learning" project, and proceeded to design the patterns. After cutting out the pieces, I took my time and started to put together the elements in a sequence that made sense to me. Had to remake some parts due to some oversights but I got everything for the uppers together and was at a point where I felt like I could use some pointers. I called up a local bootmaker and asked if they'd be willing to see what I'd done and perhaps offer some advice and was welcomed. Seeing what I created, they were impressed and were more than happy to help with lasting and showing me what it would take to put the soles/heels on. They even provided the material without me asking!

I had no expectation that I'd end up with something wearable, let alone looking decent. They are not exactly what I would want but with some tweaks, I feel like I'm close. I've got some nicer leather and am planning to take what I've learned to do even better next time.

Not bad for a first attempt though, eh? View attachment 165221 View attachment 165222 View attachment 165223

That is seriously impressive! Very well done for your first attempt at shoes, let alone leather. I hope you post your next pair as well!


Skickat från min iPad med Tapatalk
 

trapp

Practically Family
Messages
546
Location
bay area, ca
Those home-made maiden voyage boots look fantastic.

I would seriously be proud to wear boots that I myself built from scratch.

"Nice boots! Where'd you get them?'
"I made them."

Boom.
 

Bfd70

I'll Lock Up
Messages
4,336
Location
Traverse city
Geeze @Dav. Lookin good! We all know those boots are going to get some serious use. I stumbled upon some of your pics on another forum from 6 or 7 years ago. You’ve been killin it on the regular for a long time.
 
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Goel

A-List Customer
Messages
339
Unless you have big calves, are there any issues with low, narrow shafts? Still thinking of a pair of Wesco engineers like that with the low heel last. Should cut down on weight and make it more wearable with smaller hems too
 
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Edward

Bartender
Messages
25,082
Location
London, UK
I have to laugh at myself here: I see Dav buy boots that are designedc and built to take serious wear and tear, and I'm shocked he spent that much and then, well..... usedc them as their designers intended. I'll be having my jeans dry-cleaned next... :p
 

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