Leather shoe finisher
かわぐつしあげこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A craftsman who handles the final process of cut and sewn leather shoes, performing polishing, decoration, dimension adjustment, etc., to enhance aesthetics and quality.
Description
Leather shoe finishers perform the final finishing on cut and sewn leather shoes, including polishing, adhesion, sole and heel attachment, welt processing, and decorative processing. They use hand tools, specialized machines, abrasives, adhesives, etc., to shape the shoes while improving their appearance and durability. They correct minor scratches and dimensional discrepancies, conduct quality inspections, and prepare the shoes for shipment. They work in factories, small workshops, or custom shoe stores, requiring skilled hand techniques and product knowledge.
Future Outlook
Mass production in Japan is declining, but demand for luxury shoes and made-to-order shoes is stable. There is a serious shortage of skilled craftsmen, requiring technology inheritance and quality-focused work.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Contract employee / Factory work / Full-time employee / Self-employed individual workshop
Career Path
Apprentice → Leather shoe finisher → Finishing supervisor → Quality control staff → Manufacturing manager → Independent business
Required Skills
Adhesive handling / Dimension measurement / Hand tool operation / Polishing technique / Sole attachment
Recommended Skills
Burnishing technique / Color matching technique / Leather material knowledge / Repair technique
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because fine finishing determines the quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires physical stamina due to long hours of standing and manual work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Involves a lot of individual work with minimal interaction with others. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mainly simple calculations like dimension measurement; advanced mathematical skills are not required. |
Aliases
- Leather shoe finishing craftsman
- Shoe finisher
- Shoe finishing craftsman
Related Jobs
- Leather shoe manufacturer
- Shoe repairman
- Tanner