Leather Repair - Boot and Shoes

<h2 id="section---IsLeatherShoeAndBootRepairForMe">Is Leather Shoe and Boot Repair for Me?</h2> <h3 id="section---CareerDescription">Career Description</h3> <p>Professionals who work in cobbler shops as shoe and boot repairers often replace, refinish or dye leather on footwear of all types. If you take a job in this field, you might also be responsible for trimming and attaching new outsoles or joining heels and insoles with leather uppers. To perform these tasks, you'll need a good eye for detail, manual dexterity and the ability to use hand tools. Good customer service and <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Business_Administration_BSBA_Bachelors_Degree.html">business</a> skills are advantageous if you wish to become a shop owner. With experience, workers can also advance to positions as shop supervisors or <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Retail_Manager_Career_Profile_Job_Outlook_and_Education_Requirements.html">managers</a>. </p> <h3 id="section---EmploymentInformation">Employment Information</h3> <p>According to O*NET OnLine and based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), shoe and leather workers and repairers were expected to face at least a 3% decline in employment opportunities through the 2012-2022 decade. In May of 2013, the median annual wage for shoe and leather workers and repairers was $25,030. Most of these professionals earned between $17,630 and $38,260 a year, as reported by the BLS. </p> <h2 id="section---HowCanIWorkInLeatherShoeAndBootRepair">How Can I Work in Leather Shoe and Boot Repair?</h2> <h3 id="section---Training">Training</h3> <p>You can enter a career in leather shoe and boot repair with a high school diploma, according to the BLS. Typically, you would start out as a helper or complete a 2-year <a href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Long_is_Apprenticeship_Training_Typically.html">apprenticeship</a> program to learn the necessary skills. You can also acquire training at a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_Vocational_Schools.html">vocational school</a>. Trade organizations, such as the Shoe Service Institute of America, may even offer professional development resources on topics such as shortening boots or replacing heels on women's shoes. </p> <h3 id="section---FormalEducation">Formal Education</h3> <p>Another option would be to pursue an associate degree or <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Fine_Arts_BFA_Bachelors_Degree_Program.html">Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)</a> program in footwear or <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Schools_and_Classes_to_Learn_Accessories_Design_Your_Questions_Answered.html">accessories design</a> to gain an advantage in the job market. You can participate in such courses as leather and materials technology, pattern drafting, footwear construction and leather manipulation. Your curriculum might also be composed of <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Drawing_Careers_Frequently_Asked_Questions.html">drawing</a>, design and <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_is_Art_History.html">art history</a> courses. Courses in sewing technology and <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Shoe_Design_Courses_and_Degree_Programs_Your_Questions_Answered.html">shoe</a> design may be included as well.</p>