Current technical literature for uppermaking has not been available for decades, and the content of older literature has limited validity today. This is especially true for the application of contemporary orthopedic shoe technology.
Master students of orthopedic shoe technology have long complained about the lack of comprehensive technical literature, which was the trigger for starting this work.
However, uppermaking is a very complex craft. In addition to the various possibilities in patternmaking, the important knowledge about the different types of leather, about the multitude of other materials, and also about knives, tools, skiving, splitting, sewing machines and much more is essential.
This did not make the selection of topics easy, which is why the authors coordinated the contents together with orthopedic shoemakers, bespoke shoemakers, master shoemakers and specialist teachers.
Since there is also a lack of current specialist literature on uppermaking in other countries, the professional exchange extended to dedicated colleagues from seven countries. For individual chapters, further experts from other fields were consulted.
In addition, the book should not only deal with the contents relevant to the Orthopedic Shoemaking Technician Master’s Examination, but also with the aspects of the newly amended occupational profile of “Bespoke Shoemaker Uppermaking Specialist”, as well as many other interesting topics relating to the making of uppers.
Originally, there was to be only one book, but it proved impossible to accommodate the topics identified in the surveys in a single work. Therefore, there will now be three volumes with a total of about 600 pages, with hundreds of photos and graphics, which comprehensively depict the craft of uppermaking. Nevertheless, each of the three volumes stands alone and completes its respective topics. Information about the contents of the three volumes can be found here:
Whether as preparation for the Master Craftsman’s Examination, for your own upper production or for a professional design discussion with your customers, you will find this work an important aid!
Even those who purchase uppers from external suppliers will find much in this work to facilitate communication with an external uppermaker as well as the design discussion with the customer. The contents will also help to convince your customers of your professional competence in consultation meetings.
