As we head towards our 10th birthday, that’s right tenth! we want to celebrate our amazing community of shoemakers. Far from hiding what happens at our London and New York studios we’re opening up the doors so that you can get to know our teachers, makers, students, friends and inspirations.

To kick things off our Founder, Amanda Overs, sat down to answer some of the burning questions that she often gets asked and talks all things shoemaking. So grab a hot drink, take a seat and meet the teacher.

What ignited your interest in making shoes?

I always loved high heels as a teenager, my two sisters have bigger feet than me so shoes were the one thing in my wardrobe that would never go missing. My mum thinks this is what sparked it, which I find hilarious! It was actually my mum who suggested I do a shoe design course after I finished school so I booked myself onto a shoemaking course (never even considering the difference between designing and making). It was to my surprise that I LOVED to make. I love getting my hands dirty and having the feeling of accomplishment when you finally get it perfect. The rest is history.

What’s one of your most memorable moment’s teaching at I Can Make Shoes?

If you had to give us one top tip what would it be?

1. There is non-toxic shoemaking glue available and you should all be using it! (Renia Aquillim 315).
2. If your shoes are too stiff at the heel or toe area give them a blast with your hairdryer and stretch them out with your fingertips from the inside. It’ll loosen them up without you having to ‘break them in’.