Learn Derby Pattern Making – A Fundamental Shoe Style

Learn Derby patternmaking: shoe design, upper drafting, lining creation and pattern prep for handmade shoes.

What you'll learn
- Understand the structure and design features of the classic Derby shoe style.
- Create a complete Derby shoe pattern from scratch, including the upper and lining components.
- Apply professional patternmaking techniques using a standard shoe last.
- Prepare and adjust patterns for cutting leather and assembling a Derby prototype.

Requirements
- No prior shoemaking or patternmaking experience is required – this course is beginner-friendly.
- You will need a shoe last and basic tools such as paper, pencil, tape, ruler, cutter, and patternmaking materials.

Description
Imagine being able to design and draft your own shoe patterns — not just any pattern, but a timeless and essential model: the Derby.

In this course, you’ll learn how to create a professional Derby shoe pattern from scratch using traditional hand patternmaking techniques. Whether you're just starting out or aiming to refine your footwear skills, this course provides a solid foundation for anyone interested in shoemaking design, leathercraft, or fashion.

Through detailed, step-by-step video lessons, you’ll master the entire Derby patternmaking process — from wrapping the last and transferring the mean forme, to building the technical drawing and cutting the final cardboard pieces.

You’ll also gain the confidence to apply these techniques in other shoe styles and take your craft further.

What You’ll Learn

How to analyze a Derby shoe and identify its key design elements

Wrapping a last and establishing key points and construction lines

Transferring the mean forme and design lines into a 2D layout

Building the technical drawing and extracting final patterns

Creating professional cardboard patterns ready for leather cutting

What You’ll Need

A shoe last

Basic tools: pencil, ruler, cutter, eraser, A3 paper, and other accessible items

No software needed — this course focuses on hands-on, manual techniques

Who This Course Is For

Beginners who want to learn classic shoemaking from the ground up

Aspiring footwear designers looking to create patterns that fit real lasts

Leathercrafters who want to expand their skillset into footwear

Hobbyists or professionals seeking creative, made-to-measure projects

This course is part of a larger shoemaking journey that includes 9 different footwear models — from Derby and Oxford to Sneakers, Loafers, Boots, Heels, and more. When you’re ready, you’ll have the skills and tools to go beyond the Derby and start building your own full collection.

Who this course is for:
- Beginners interested in shoemaking and footwear design
- Hobbyists who want to learn how to draft their own shoe patterns
- Aspiring footwear designers looking to understand classic Derby construction
More Info