Andrew McDonald is a Shoemaker for Dumbofeather

A feature video on Andrew and his practice. Shot by Marc Whiteway for Dumbofeather.

New surface finishes

Continuing our expoloration into surface techniques, we have been playing around with a variety of dyes on new hides, producing some unique results.

Introducing a new shade into our tie dye techniqe has added extra depth to our spiral zip boot.

Another new method we have been experimenting with is a scatterdye technique, which allows us to explore the leather as a canvas.

Lace-back ellipse boot, scatterdye style.

The samples are available for purchase from our William st shopfront.

New dates available for 2012 intensive shoemaking courses

Due to popular demand, we have added more weeks to our intensive shoemaking course availability for 2012.

The full list of dates for the 5 day courses can be found here.

Students in the Workshop ~ Naomi

Introducing Naomi, our second shoemaking student in our 'Students in the Workshop' series.

Name: Naomi Clarke

Age: 25

Occupation: Apprenctice shoe maker

Hometown: Blue Mountains

Date of course: 14th- 19th Nov

• Why did you want to do the course?

I wanted a hands-on course that would indroduce me to all the steps of shoemaking, rather than a theoretical overview- plus, finishing with a pair of shoes was very appealing!

• How did you find out about it?

Google search, blogs.

• What shoes have you made?

Tan oxfords with a brogue detial, fringed tongue and tassled laces.

• Why this style/ leather finish?

I wanted to make a 1920's-30's vintage style that was unisex and classic.

• What’s the best thing you've learned/ heard from Andrew

Description of the whole shoemaking process: from taking an illustration, converting this into a pattern and transforming this into a wearable shoe was very rewarding. Having Andrew's brain to pick from concept to object was a fantastic learning experience.

• Most difficult technique you've had to do?

I found skivving a difficult process, scraping off a thin layer but not cutting into the leather!

• Will you continue to do shoemaking?

Absolutely

• Any words of advice for others?

I would highly recommend the course to anyone interested in the art of shoemaking. 

The finished product: Tan Tassled Oxfords 

More information on our shoemaking courses can be found here.