DIY shoe lasts

When creating a new pair of shoes or repairing an old one, craftsmen use special devices called lasts. They are necessary for giving the product shape, ironing the edges of shoes and finishing the component parts. Depending on the type of work performed, installation method and amount of use, you can select the appropriate pad model.

If you wish, you can buy them in a store or order them online. But for one-time use, this option is not suitable due to the high cost. In this case, it will be much more profitable to make the workpiece yourself. This is quite simple to do. Read more about the creation plan in our article.

What you need to make your own pads

Before you begin manufacturing, you need to carefully think through the plan and prepare all the tools and materials.

For long-term treatment of shoes, you will need to make strong and reliable lasts. In this case, you need to buy strong material.

In our case, the preparatory work plan will be as follows:

• Prepare your workplace, remove everything unnecessary, free up space for creativity.
• Take measurements from your feet, for which you will make the blank. This option is useful when working with a wooden model.
• Prepare everything you need for work.

Materials and tools

• Stock up on paper and tape of different colors.
• Polyurethane foam for filling the workpiece.
• Scissors, pencil if necessary.
• Plastic bags, it is advisable to take several pieces. When preparing for children's feet, it is better to use old socks.

If you wish, you can also use additional improvised means to fill the future block. Depending on the material chosen, the product will differ in strength.

An excellent option would be parts from a mannequin. If you have the opportunity, take the lower leg pieces - they will work great.

How to make pads at home

If you have prepared everything and taken the necessary measurements, you can start working. The execution plan is quite simple, follow the instructions below.

• Place a bag or sock on your foot and start covering it with tape. one color.
• Cover your leg completely with duct tape of a different color. This is necessary so that there are no gaps. Repeat the manipulation several times.
• Now cut the workpiece from tape along the front line. Perform all actions carefully so as not to damage your leg. This must be repeated twice - on the left and right sides, respectively.
• Fill the resulting blanks with newspaper or foam to add hardness.
• After filling tape the incision site. If necessary add tape and foam inside the workpiece. This way you can get the desired size pads for any type of work.

If the final size does not fit your foot, you can adjust it. Carefully trim edges or add material as needed.

If you did everything correctly, you should have a great pair of pads. With their help, you can perform any manipulations on shoes. If desired, you can use them to make home slippers.