They use Mc Kay machines (blake) because the actual goodyear machines that cobblers/cordwainers buy for their workshops only stitch the outside of the shoos, so if they were going to make a welted shoo they would still have to stitch a welt to the upper to the insole (the workshop machines are different to the actual factory goodyear welting machines). With the added cost of time doing all this handwork, our local makers feel blake construction is the most feasible option.

Still, l feel the local shoe makers underestimate the market for welted shoes. There is a market for expensive shoes, it's just that the shoemakers need to grab a piece of it. l want to help them get their name out there and put Melbourne on the map for making proper handmade shoes. l feel it can be done.

Last edited by The_Shooman (2009-11-10 23:43:25)

Last edited by Big Tony (2009-11-11 07:26:52)

Last edited by The_Shooman (2009-11-12 03:55:55)

Hey The Shooman, i'm in the exact same boat as you, i would rather support local businesses in melbounre than EG/vass if i can. i spoke to Bruce Miller via email a few months ago, but havnt got round to seeing him as i live on the mornington peninsula and its  a 2 hour drive. i'll see him after christmas now. i was thinking of seeing doc cobbler as they offer bespoke shoemaking (lasts provided by Bruce Miller) they also offer fairstitch construction which (from shoe makers i have spoken to) is better than goodyear welt, but not as good as hand welted. doc cobbler look a little rough though in their appearence (think andrew McDonnald's shoes on his site), i was more after a sleek and beautiful edward green or lobb looking shoe, not so ruggerd. i'd love to hear you experiences with shoe makers as we need to dig up there satorial gems in melbounre. thank god for Style forum and FNB as they really help find these artisant. best of luck.
Regards,
            Wrigglez

(i was more after a sleek and beautiful edward green or lobb looking shoe)
(l wouldn't hold your breath. )
haha yeah i know! i may have to go through a few pairs to end up with a good result but thats ok.
sending the last to vass also sounds like an exclent idea if vass will accecpt doing it. Tim Skyrme is also another name to have a look at about very good shoes in aus.
looking foward to the blog and best regards.
wrigglez

Last edited by wrigglez (2009-12-24 03:45:01)

Wow! Well done, Shooey

Shooey thanks much for posting these.

For anyone that’s interested, I met Bruce Miller today, the only last maker in Australia. He is a fantastic person, very knolageable; I spent at least 3 1/2 hours talking to him about the footwear industry, last making, shoe construction and my foot. He has worked with RM. Williams at least since the 60's. I walked in wearing my RM. Williams Craftsman’s and he said 'I remember making the first of those lasts in 1967' anyway; I am having a pair of lasts made on a modified
RM. Williams B529 last, as the toe shape was nice and round, similar to the John Lobb 7000 last.
To more accurate the lasts will be original with styling cues from the B529 last. He originally asked me what problems I had with my boots, and also pointed out other things that I had not noticed but once they were pointed out to be, became blatantly obvious. He wasn't so keen on making trees, however I convinced him a little and he seemed to agree. As for price, about half of what springline is charging. He also knew a few people that work at springline. Once the lasts are finished they will be shipped off to Cliff. Looking very forward to the coming results.
Any questions feel free to ask.
His website is: www.shoelastsaustralia.com.au
Regards,

Last edited by wrigglez (2010-01-20 05:13:03)