It’s amazing what can be achieved with just a handful of materials and a free afternoon. Kate, from the I Can Make Shoes team, set out to create a pair of fisherman sandals - and in just a few simple steps, she transformed leather and thread into something you’d never find in the shops: a one-of-a-kind, professional-looking pair of handmade sandals.
Kate started by drawing the sandal pattern from scratch, using our Barefoot Last because its shape perfectly matched the sole unit she wanted to use.
With the pattern ready, she cut the pieces from a rich sienna brown crocodile-embossed leather. For the lining, she chose a soft light-brown calfskin, giving the sandals structure while keeping them comfortable to wear.
To add a subtle decorative touch, Kate punched small holes along each strap and threaded embroidery through them. This simple step turned ordinary straps into a detail that elevates the sandals without making them fussy.
Next, she wove the straps together to form the classic fisherman-style upper. The uppers were then lasted onto a foam padded texon insole board which Kate had already covered in leather.
Using solvent-based glue, she secured the uppers and then attached them to the pre-made sole units. Step by step, each element came together seamlessly - proving that creating something professional-looking doesn’t have to be complicated.
And finally, the best part: trying them on. A pair of sandals that began as simple pieces of leather and thread became something entirely wearable, stylish, and completely unique.
Supplies You’ll Need to Make Fisherman Sandals
If you want to try making your own, here’s everything you’ll need:
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Sienna brown crocodile-embossed leather (or your preferred leather)
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Light brown calfskin lining leather
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Embroidery thread
If you don't want to draw up your sandal pattern from scratch, you can download our pre-made Fisherman Sandal Pattern.
