Reinforcement Tapes for Shoemaking
Reinforcement tapes in shoemaking strengthen specific areas of the upper, preventing stitch ripping and enhancing durability. Essential for precision work, they ensure long-lasting shoe quality and structure.
4mm Width Reinforcement Tape
True to its name, this tape is 4mm wide and is chiefly used to bolster the folded edges of the upper. Its importance is accentuated when folding the shoe's topline, as it minimizes stretching during the lasting process. Additionally, it facilitates a more precise and effortless edge-folding experience.
You must understand that shoemakers use this tape only when the edge of the upper part is folded. If they have a different edge finishing, such as raw cut, they do not use it, but they do use it in all other types of seams. As a result, knowing the rules of making a pattern is critical in order to know what to use and how to put together all shoe parts.
Many of you will wonder how to fold identically all elements of both halves of the upper (left and right), especially if the upper has many details. Don't worry, there is a specific pattern making approach that uses the Basic pattern as a guide, and if you want to learn more about it, read this shoemaking article: "How to make perfectly identical pair of shoes". And in the T-strap Pump Shoes Course we use this pattern amking techniues to fold both uppers of pumps identicaly.
Here is a superuseful shoemaking article that guide you on how to fold an upper when working with this reinforcement: “How To Fold a Shoe Upper?![Making of Shoes]”
14mm (or 16mm) Width Reinforcement Tape
This broader tape, measuring either 14mm or 16mm in width, is particularly utilized to fortify the back seam of the shoe upper (no mater from which material is made). At times, it's also applied to strengthen the back seam of the lining . Additionally, it's beneficial in reinforcing specific seams within the upper. This tape aids in ensuring durability and structure, especially in areas prone to higher stress or wear. It is a must-do step and if you want to learn this shoemaking technique follow the instructions I give in this free shoe making tutorial: "What Shoemakers do, to achieve This perfect back seam".More than this, to learn detailed about all other shoe making steps please read this article: "How to make shoes".
These two reinforcement tapes are part of the basic tools kit that is provided in 1-Year Shoemaker Program. If you're interested in learning about other fundamental tools for shoemaking beginners, be sure to read this article:
“Beginners in Shoemaking Tools and Materials Definitive Guide 2023”.