How Canvas Shoes Are Made

Canvas shoes are worn by millions of people around the world.

Canvas shoes are a popular type of casual, athletic footwear. These shoes are made by a series of processes that can include pattern cutting, sewing, gluing, riveting and injection molding to create a durable finished product.

The Last

Mass-manufactured canvas shoes begin with a shoe "last." A last mimics a human foot and its use ensures the shoes are built to a standard size. Lasts are made of wood, iron or reinforced plastic.

Pattern Pieces

Canvas and leather pieces are precisely cut with a high-tech, laser-cutting machine, while rubber and plastic pieces for the base of the shoe are created using an injection molding process.

Joining

Different canvas shoemakers have individual styles and methods for joining the pattern pieces together. The canvas part of the upper shoe can be glued, stitched or riveted together, while the outsole, insole and lining are glued together to form one piece.

Shaping

The upper part of the canvas shoe is stretched over the last to create a shape; it is then attached to the bottom part of the shoe with an industrial sewing machine.

Finishing Touches

The shoe may be sprayed, painted or polished to create a neat final product. The canvas can also be treated with a water-resistant spray.

References

• Sociology At Duke: The Making of a Shoe
• Textile Exchange: How Shoes are Made

Resources

• Cool Quiz: How Shoes Were First Made