The Complete Step-By-Step Guide 

Shoemakers Academy YouTube Channel

Find more information for sole stitching here:
Sole Stitching Step-By Step

We find that a fat quarter, or the equivalent of approximately 18″ x 22″, will be sufficient for the exterior fabric, foam padding, and lining of your shoe. Additional lining material or other fabric is needed if you choose to make binding tape. Approx. 70″ is used on a pair of women’s size 9 sneakers.

No, you don’t need shoe glue to make this quilted shoe kit.  

You may find it easier to sew your upper to the outsole if it’s held in place with glue, double stick tape, needles or a locking pin.     

To make a sturdier and more supportive shoe we recommend a lasting board Strobel construction and glue. 

Adding binding tape to your quilted sneaker is optional depending on the look you want. 

1. Hand-Wrapped Edge Binding:
Open the bias tape up and line up the right side of the raw edge of one side to the inside edge of the upper. Stitch in the ditch (the pressed fold) of the bias tape along the upper. Fold the bias tape up and over the top of the upper so that the folded edge of the bias tape covers the previous stitching from your first pass. Pin to hold in place. Stitch the bias tape from the right side of the upper close to the edge of the bias tape. REMEMBER- The binding must be bias cut to allow it to bend around corners. 

2. Machine Serging (overlock function):
Use a serger (with an overlock function) to encase the raw edge with thread, effectively binding and finishing it in one pass. This method is fast and strong, ideal for inner edges or where flexibility is needed.

3. Machine Feed Edge Binding:
Using a sewing machine with a binding feed attachment foot, attach the binding tape to the raw edge of the quilted sneaker panel. Align the binding evenly and feed it through the foot, stitching close to the edge. This method is efficient and provides a clean, consistent finish, especially for production runs. The Singer Bias Binder Presser Foot, item # SKU 250066596.01, costs approximately $20. 

No, you don’t need to pre-punch holes in the outsole.The supplied awl needle easily pierces the rubber side wall.
You may find it helpful to mark your desired stitch length on a piece of masking tape attached to the outsole.

The amount of binding needed depends on the size of the shoe. A men’s 12 requires 80 inches to make 1 pair. 

Here are links to tutorials on how to channel stitch your shoe:

Channel Stitching Demo Video 

Channel Stitching a Quilted Sneaker

https://shoemakersacademy.com/channel-stitching

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2hkRNbEd1s
Step 17, 33 minutes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAo90AwyXek&t=3090s
3 hours into the video you will see the channel stitching operation.

The Shoemakers Academy Sneaker Kit is a versatile DIY shoemaking starter kit that includes soles, memory foam insoles, stitching tools, and detailed video instructions, making it ideal for beginners and hobbyists interested in custom sneaker making. In contrast, SneakerKit EU focuses on providing high-quality soles and patterns in European sizes, perfect for crafters who already have sewing tools and want a straightforward sneaker construction kit without extra quilting materials. Meanwhile, the Happy Feet Quilted Sneaker Kit has specialized quilting patterns, cupsoles, insoles, and included sewing tools like waxed cord and a stiletto, making it a good choice for those who love quilting sneakers or combining fabric artistry with shoemaking. When comparing cost, content, and skill level, Shoemakers Academy offers the best option in affordability and flexibility, SneakerKit EU delivers simplicity and standardization, while Happy Feet provides an all-in-one package for creative fabric-based DIY sneaker projects.