London intensive shoemaking course 1; Day 5; Week 1

The forecast was right! It has been welting, welting, welting today. Threads snapped, bristles slid off, tar got sticky and talc was employed to calm everything down. A welcome lunch break and renewed energy meant that two students have finished their second shoe and the rest have only a short way left to go.

Interesting toe shapes will become even more interesting with welts on...

There was quiet in the studio today as concentration levels reached epic levels - broken only by quiet curses and prayers to the 'welting Gods'.

Tomorrow it's welting finished then trimming the welt and fitting shanks and cork before the mellowed soles are glued on. Can't wait...students will be sleeping well tonight! Happy shoemaking until tomorrow.