Shoe Upper Maker (Leather Shoe Manufacturing)
せいこうこう（かわぐつせいぞう）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that manufactures footwear through consistent manual labor and machine operations, from leather shoe material selection, cutting, sewing, sole attachment, to finishing.
Description
Shoe upper makers (leather shoe manufacturing) produce leather shoes through processes such as leather selection and cutting, pattern creation, insole and sole material attachment, sewing, sole attachment, polishing, and finishing. They selectively use traditional hand sewing or machine sewing to produce shoes balancing durability and design. Quality control and material property understanding are essential, with advanced techniques required based on skill level.
Future Outlook
While mass production and overseas production advances have led to a declining trend in mass-produced sectors, demand for skilled craftsmen remains high in luxury shoe and custom-made markets, with technology succession posing a challenge.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands and skilled in detailed work / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Assembly Line Work / Factory Employment / Made-to-Order Production / Sole Proprietorship
Career Path
Apprentice → Skilled Worker → Chief Craftsman → Factory Manager → Self-Employment·Independence
Required Skills
Insole Sole Attachment Technique / Leather Cutting Technique / Pattern Making / Polishing Finishing Technique / Shoe Sewing Machine Operation
Recommended Skills
CAD Pattern Creation / Design Sense / English Document Reading / Material Characteristics Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small cutting mistakes or sewing deviations greatly affect product quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it involves prolonged standing work and frequent handling of heavy materials. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because advanced mathematical analysis is rarely required. |
Related Qualifications
- Leather Product Manufacturing Craftworker Grade 1
- Leather Product Manufacturing Craftworker Grade 2
- Leather Product Manufacturing Craftworker Grade 3
Aliases
- Leather Shoe Craftsman
- Shoe Maker
- Shoemaker
Related Jobs
- Leather Product Manufacturer
- Shoe Designer
- Shoe Maker