Machinery for shoemaking
Shoemaking machinery encompasses a range of specialized equipment designed to streamline and enhance the shoe production process.
Here is a list of most common machinery used in both modern and traditional shoemaking processes. Depending on the production scale and desired outcome, different combinations of these machines are employed in various facilities.
Lasting Machine
Molds the shoe's upper parts to the last and attaches it to the insole, giving the shoe its final shape. It includes the application of stiffness between upper and lining of the shoe.
In this process of lasting in hand made shoes shoemakers use shoemakers employ various methods depending on the type of shoe and the construction of the shoe. For instance, the lining is bonded separately from the upper in Dr. Martens boots with stitched down construction, while both the upper and lining are stitched to the welt and the shoe sole in shoes with welted construction.
Clicking Press or Die Cutting Machine
Used to cut the upper parts of shoes from leather or other materials.
Skiving Machine
Thins the edges of leather pieces for easier stitching and a smoother finish.
Sole Press
Specifically for pressing soles onto the uppers, ensuring a firm bond. They can be hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical.
Bench Grinder
A bench grinder is an indispensable piece of equipment in a shoemaker's workshop. Designed to sit atop a workbench or stand, it comprises two grinding wheels mounted on either side of a motor. These wheels come in varying grits and are typically used for grinding, sharpening, and shaping tools and materials.
Dremel Drill
Over the years of my shoemaking instruction, dremel drill tool has emerged as one of the most essential for beginners in shoemaking. It serves as a suitable substitute for the professional bench grinder machine. To learn more about this tool, please refer to the following shoemaking article:
Dremel drill: 8 Ways to Use This Shoemaking Tool
Edge Setting Machine
Used to smooth out and finish the edges of shoes.
Embossing Machine
Imprints designs or patterns onto the shoe's surface.
Insole Moulding Machine
Shapes the insoles before insertion.
Heel Nailing Machine
Nails the heel to the shoe's body and attaches the heel to the shoe's sole.
Eyeletting Machine
Sets eyelets in shoes, especially those with laces.
Heat Setter or Steam Chamber
Used in heat-setting synthetic materials to a shoe's last. Softens materials making them more pliable for shaping.
Drying Oven
Dries the shoes after certain processes or sets specific adhesives.
Sole Buffing Machine
Prepares the sole by creating a rough surface for finishing. It is equipped with tools and machines (like brushes, burnishers, and polishers) for the final touches and polishing of the shoe. They're essential for achieving a refined finish on the footwear.
Upper Leather Ironing Machine
Provides the upper leather with a smooth and polished look.
Online stores to buy some machinery for shoemaking
https://www.colliniatomi.it/it/utensileria-macchinari.html?cat=76&product_list_limit=15
https://www.zackwhite.com/leather-working-machinery?viewall=1
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