A Basic Forme or Form is the two-dimensional representation of the shoe last’s three-dimensional shape. The former is also called the standard, the last draft, the shell pattern, or the last copy.

The Shoe Master Carton The Master Carton or case pack for production shoes is usually a 10 or 12 pack depending on the size of the shoe and shoe inner box. In the master carton the inner boxes will be arranged so the warehouse worker […]

Bend leather is the hardest, most valuable, and most massive part of a cowhide. Between one-fifth and one-third of an inch (5-8mm) thick, water and temperature resistant, and easy to work. It has been softened and stored in the tanning pits for at least 15-18 […]

Sales Representative and Sub Rep: Selling shoes is a great way to get involved. The sales force is exposed to many aspects of the shoe trade. An active sales rep can help shape the product line. On the front line selling the shoes, the salesmen […]

Box Calf leather is calfskin tanned with chrome salts. It is considered to be the best material for shoe uppers and boot legs.

Nubuck is top-grain cattle hide leather that has been sanded or buffed on the grain side, or outside, to give a slight nap of short protein fibers, producing a velvet-like surface

Shoe Parts: Mustache the Mustache is the shoe part attached to the shoe above the heel counter part. The classic sneaker will have a mustache.

MTO or Made to Order or Make to Order Made to order or MTO is a special production run of shoes. The MTO shoes can be for a specific shoe store or an international distributor. Usually a special color or material treatment is required. The […]

Top-grain leather, (the most common type used in high-end leather products) is the second-highest quality. The “split” layer has been separated away, making it thinner and more pliable than full-grain. Its surface has been sanded, and a finish coat added to the surface which results […]

The Shoe Part: Mudguard The Muguard is the shoe pattern part seen along the forward part of the shoe and along the edge of the outsole.