Simple Sandal Project, plus an inquiry

As a demonstration for my students, I documented the creation of a simple pair of sandals.

When i first started learning about shoes, this was a project we were required to do, as a way to get us familiar with the landscape of the foot.

And anyways, footwear can't always be complicated, can it?

On another note, I've been flirting with some simple projects- not brilliant design, but stuff that's fun and close to my other interests. I've made a pair of leather handlebar grips:

They are very crude right now, but let me know if this is something you are interested in.

Bicycle Shoes Final

I finished the bicycle shoes today (minus one detail):


I dyed and waxed the sole and edges for a finished look. For a heel, I just used a western boot toplift. They fit with the look of the shoes.


The outsole still needs to be stitched on, but it may be a while before I can make arrangements to use someones stitcher. Overall I am very pleased with the results. My main goals were to use a different method of standard forme production, and to make an athletically styled shoe. Functionally I think it will take a few more to get the everything where I want it without using hi-tech materials.

I need to:

1) Stiffen the shank area further.
2) Lighten and clean the composite sole
3) Install cleats

Over all I think the upper needs a little more body, which will require a few further materials changes. My bike mechanic really liked the composite sole and agreed that it appeared that it would accept a cleat pretty well.

Tomorrow, I'll need to dig out a pair of trainer insoles and see about wear-testing them.

Erick