5. Dominic Casey - Bespoke Shoemaker

In this episode Katie speaks to Dominic Casey, fellow Cordwainer, master craftsman, teacher and bespoke shoemaker. Dominic has worked in the bespoke shoe trade for over 35 years. He originally trained as an orthopaedic shoemaker while simultaneously teaching the BA course on design and pattern making at Cordwainers college. He has his own workshop, worked in the ladies fashion industry and for 15 years taught on the footwear design MA at the Royal College of Art.

They discuss his style influences and journey from management consultant to become a craftsman at what turned out to be a renaissance time in the footwear industry.

They delve into the topics of hand techniques, home-made tools, patent making and the challenges of starting your own label. Find out Dominic’s views on the value add of the personal bespoke service, what customers expect and building a shoe wardrobe.

With light-hearted tales of a disastrous first commission and his venture with Steven Lowe teaching lastmaking at Lastmaker House you’ll never look at your feet the same way again.

The conversation ends with Dominic arguing the importance of reviving handmaking skills being lost from the industry such as ‘turn shoes’.

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This podcast is produced by Audio Coast