Skilled artisans handcraft Isobels in six steps

1—

Design

The design process begins with a rough paper sketch. The design's shape is then translated into a handcrafted wooden form called a last. The Isobel's last is distinguished by its softly squared toe and slim waist. This is wrapped with masking tape; the upper design is penciled on, scored with a scalpel, and peeled away to unveil the pattern for prototyping. Perfecting the fit and style involves multiple iterations, after which the pattern is scaled proportionally to accommodate various shoe sizes.

2—

Clicking

For the 'upper' or outer surface of the shoe, we use a soft and durable velvet and a thin microfibre material with sweat-wicking properties for the lining. The materials are laid out on a clean, flat surface and the pattern pieces are placed on top, following the grain. A sharpened scalpel blade is then used to cut the pattern lines.

3—

Closing

The cut pieces undergo a process called skiving, in which the edges are thinned using a scalpel to reduce the seam weight before they're sewn together or 'closed'. To achieve both a decorative and durable finish, a grosgrain ribbon is sandwiched between the top seams.

4—

Lasting

The velvet upper is stretched over the last and secured with tacks. The lasted upper is then left to set for three days to hold the shape of the design, ensuring it maintains the contours of the Isobel's last precisely.

5—

Heeling

Our beechwood heels are hand-carved or 'turned', sanded, stained and varnished before being mounted onto the moulded rubber outsoles.

6—

Finishing

The final step involves fitting the socks, a microfibre piece that rests under the feet. This is debossed with our logo mark—a step that's reminiscent of the satisfaction of signing a completed painting. Now, the Isobels are ready.