Making a Cowboy Boot

Instructions on how you can make cowboy boots

Much time and attention is taken in the making of a Western boot. The craftsmanship involved is quite a skill, to say the least. Most people do not realize how involved the process of boot making is, as there are so many steps which must be taken in order to create a custom made Western boot. Many of the features of a custom made boot are hidden from view, while others can be easily seen.

One of the most obvious choices you will have in choosing a boot is the type of leather. One of the most common and inexpensive types of leather is cowhide. It is also very tough. However, you may prefer a more exotic (and more expensive) leather such as eel, ostrich, lizard, shark, elk, bison, alligator or python. You will also have a wide choice of colors.

The following are the essential steps taken to create a custom made Western boot:

First of all you must measure the feet and calves, since Western boots go all the way up the calves. Proper fit is crucial in wearing boots comfortably. Then choose the design, including the leather and style (both toe and heel) and the top of the boot.

Paper patterns must be created for the top of the boot. In order to accomplish this step, you must cut the following from the leather: the tops, front and back stays and the pull straps. (Pull straps may be on the inside or outside of the boot.) Then skive the edges on the top pieces. (Skive means to scrape the back of the leather to thin with a sharp knife-especially along the edges; then they are lightly sand, then burned with a match or flame to remove residue of the leather.) The tops of the boots are put together using cement on both the leather and the beading. Next sew the tops and pull-straps with inlays and overlays. Then stitch the patterns that you have developed.

The vamp (lower portion of the boot which covers the foot) is cut, as well as the lining. Then the vamps and linings are stretched over the crimp boards. The next step is to measure, trim and attach the vamps and foot linings to the tops of the boots.

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