Shoemaker
くつこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that makes shoes using materials such as leather and synthetic leather. Performs everything consistently from foot measurement and design to manufacturing and finishing.
Description
Shoemakers design and create lasts according to customers' foot shapes and requests, cut leather or synthetic materials, and sew them to form uppers. Next, they attach soles using sole-attaching machines or by hand, and fix them with adhesive or stitching. Finally, they enhance aesthetics and durability through polishing and finishing processes, and perform inspections. They handle everything from custom-made shoes to mass-produced shoes, and may also engage in repairs and maintenance.
Future Outlook
Demand for high-quality and custom-made shoes is on the rise. While mass production is shifting overseas, domestic markets are expected to see demand for artisans in high-value-added and custom-made fields.
Personality Traits
Creative / Dexterous hands and good at detailed work / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Manufacturing Site Employment / OEM Manufacturer Employment / Self-employed Freelance / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Shoemaker → Shoemaker → Chief Shoemaker → Shoe Manufacturing Manager → Independent Business (Custom-Made Shoe Shop)
Required Skills
Cutting Technique / Finishing Polishing Technique / Last Processing / Sewing Technique / Sole Attachment Technique
Recommended Skills
CAD (Shoe Design) / English (Overseas Brand Support) / Marketing Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high precision is required in detailed cutting and sewing. |
| Problem Solving | Because it is necessary to devise the optimal shoe structure according to the customer's foot shape and requests. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematics is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Leather Product Manufacturing Technician (National Qualification)
Aliases
- Shoe Craftsman
- シューメーカー
Related Jobs
- Bag Manufacturer
- Leather Goods Manufacturer