The shoemaker is a craftsman specializing in the design and manufacture of custom shoes, often in leather, to create unique models adapted to the specific requirements of each client. His work begins with discussions with the client to determine the details of the model: style, shape, color, and type of heel. Once the measurements have been taken and, sometimes, an imprint made, the shoemaker creates a wooden form of the client's foot, draws the pattern, cuts the materials, then assembles the different pieces. The assembly can be done using different techniques (Goodyear welted, Norwegian, welded, etc.) to ensure the durability and quality of the shoes.
The profession requires great manual skill, in-depth knowledge of materials, particularly leather, as well as a sense of aesthetics and creativity.