Make Shoes Your Way

Two Paths.
One Passion.

At Lonsdale, you can go two ways.

The Classic path is for those who want to learn the shoemaking craft, including pattern making, material selection, machine sewing, and cemented construction, using modern shoemaking techniques. It’s about skill, no shortcuts.

The Street path is for creatives who want to make their sneakers. You’ll design, deconstruct, rebuild, and then walk out in a pair that’s completely your own.

Both paths start here. 

Choose
Your Path

Street
Classic
What You'll Learn
The Street Path
The Classic Path

The Street Path is designed for individuals interested in customizing sneakers with a focus on creativity, construction, and personal expression. This stream offers a direct, product-based experience where students build their own unique version of iconic footwear.

Each participant receives a complete kit including a pair of shoe lasts, sneaker patterns for their chosen style and size, and donor shoes. The course guides students through the process of deconstructing and rebuilding sneakers using professional tools and cemented construction methods.

Each course offers a deep dive into sneaker construction while allowing space for creative freedom and visual identity.

Courses in Street Path

Custom Sneaker: Air Jordan 1 High Top

Customize one of the most iconic silhouettes in sneaker history. 

Custom Sneaker: Nike Air Max

Nike Air Max
Explore the structure and layering of this bold classic.

The Classic Path is designed for individuals seeking a solid foundation in footwear making. This stream focuses on building real-world skills through professional tools, modern techniques, and guided studio practice. Students gain a deep understanding of the shoemaking process — from concept and pattern development to construction and finishing.

Rather than focusing on making just one pair of shoes, these courses are about learning how to make any pair. The emphasis is on building strong technique, material fluency, and practical problem-solving through guided practice.

Each course strengthens core skills that support long-term growth in both craft and design.

Courses in Classic Path

Beginner Shoemaking Course

A comprehensive introduction to the core techniques of shoemaking: pattern drafting, leather selection and cutting, stitching, structural assembly, and finishing. Ideal for newcomers or those looking to strengthen their technical base.

Fantasy Footwear Course

A creative design-focused course blending traditional construction methods with expressive and sculptural approaches. Encourages experimentation while reinforcing fundamental techniques.

Sandal Making Workshop

Focused on open-style construction, this short-format course provides practical experience with seasonal styles, component prep, and refined leatherwork.

Advanced Seminars & Technical Workshops

Designed for returning students or experienced makers, these intensives focus on specific methods, complex construction details, and specialized materials.

Who We Are

Why Study at Lonsdale
Lonsdale Leather is one of Canada’s leading leathercraft environments. It is a working studio and supplier with a deep commitment to education and craft. Students learn inside a fully equipped shoemaking space, using high-quality tools and materials under the guidance of experienced instructors. Our programs are designed to support progressive learning. Whether you are beginning your journey or returning to refine advanced techniques, you will find courses that build on each other and grow with your skill level.
Our Approach
We teach modern shoemaking as it is practiced in today’s design and artisan studios. Our courses blend traditional techniques with contemporary tools and materials, with an emphasis on construction, fit, and material understanding. Each course is immersive, carefully paced, and focused on building transferable real-world skills that support both creative and professional goals.

Student Stories

Courses
December 7th - Leather Wrapped Candle Workshop $60.00 CAD

Sold Out

December 7th - Wood Carving Workshop w/ Shayla Giroux $60.00 CAD

Sold Out

December 14th - Camera Strap Workshop Collab w/ clockwise_yvr & Busycreatives $80.00 CAD
OPEN STUDIO WORKSHOP HOURS w/ Nina $75.00 CAD +
See More Courses  ▸

Need to know

Who are the courses for?
Our courses are designed for anyone curious about how shoes are made and are ready to get hands-on experience. Whether you are a complete beginner, a creative professional, or someone exploring a new craft, you will find the guidance and structure to bring your ideas to life. Each program offers a balance of technical skill, creativity, and personal expression.
Do I need any prior experience to take a course?
Our Beginner Shoemaking and Sneaker courses are open to everyone, no previous experience needed. They are a friendly introduction to the craft and a great place to start. Our specialty and advanced programs are best suited for participants with some sewing experience and a basic understanding of pattern drafting. *Not sure which course is right for you? Send us a message and we will help you find the perfect fit.
What kind of shoemaking do you teach?
Our courses focus on modern shoemaking techniques, using cement construction (glued lasting) and non-leather components for stiffeners, insoles, and soles. This method reflects contemporary footwear design and production while keeping the process creative, accessible, and environmentally conscious.
Where are the courses held?
All classes take place at Lonsdale Leather in Vancouver, BC, in a fully equipped workshop designed for shoemaking and leathercraft. The space is bright, organized, and beginner-friendly, with every tool and machine ready for use.
Group sizes are intentionally small, up to four or six students, ensuring plenty of guidance, workspace, and feedback.
Are materials and tools included?
Yes. Everything you need is provided, including leathers, soles, hardware, adhesives, and full access to studio tools and machines, so you can focus entirely on learning and creating rather than sourcing materials.
What if I want to keep learning after the course?
Many students return to join our seasonal advanced workshops, which explore new materials, techniques, and creative design directions. We also offer guidance for those who wish to keep practicing at home or develop their own projects. Whether you are refining your skills or starting something new, we are here to help you grow as a maker.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Because each class has limited seats and requires advance preparation, tuition fees are non-refundable. If you need to change your plans, please get in touch with us at least two weeks before the start date, and we will gladly transfer your booking to a future session or issue a credit toward another course. If we ever need to reschedule, you will be offered a new date or a full refund.