For 5 days, participants crafted their own custom-made leather sandals. Among them was Birte Muehlhoff. The young woman from Bochum not only discovered a fascinating craft but also faced her fears and several challenges along the way. She tells us about her experience in this interview.
How did you find out about the Sandalenwerkstatt?
There is this SWR craft series that I always watch when I cannot sleep at night. I simply love the format — it not only gives me a glimpse into a different world but also provides a pleasant soundscape to fall asleep to. That is how I eventually learned about you and your work.
What motivated you to take part in the workshop?
Sandals have always been a problem for me. Every summer I have to buy new ones because they break so quickly. And since I walk a lot, especially on warm days, I really want good shoes that last. Since I cannot actually afford custom-made sandals like that, I chose the course instead. It is a bit more affordable.
Had you worked with leather before?
No, this was the first time I worked with leather. I do a bit of painting in my free time, but that has nothing to do with this kind of craft.
Since you had never been in contact with the craft before, I can well imagine you faced some challenges.
Yes, that is true. I was very nervous about the sanding machine because my boyfriend, who is a metalworker, had told me about accidents with rotating machines. The most physically challenging part, though, was the hand-stitching. My needle kept getting stuck in the leather and was nearly impossible to remove. Then I figured out that I could wet the leather again, which made it softer and easier to work with. If the needle still got stuck, I just pulled it out with pliers. That kind of handwork is something you simply do not encounter when sewing with fabric.
So would you say you learned a lot of new things about the craft?
Absolutely! I gained a really great insight into the craft and working with leather in general. It was also interesting to learn that I apparently have really flat feet. Flat feet, is that the right word?
How well did you feel looked after during the block course?
At some point the group split up because some were slower than others. I was in the slower group myself, but I still felt that he always took the time to answer my questions. I think he managed both groups really well without neglecting anyone.
Would you do the course again?
Make sandals again? Probably not. I hope my new pair of sandals will last a very long time so I will not need a second course.
What about other courses? Leather belt workshops, for example?
I am not sure if I would necessarily attend another leather workshop in the near future, but courses with a similar structure to those at the Sandalenwerkstatt — definitely. For me it was like a week of active holiday where you work physically, stay highly focused, and follow instructions. I did not even have to think about how to organise my time off since everything was already planned. I found that time, or rather that experience, deeply relaxing.
So I take it you would recommend the course.
I would definitely recommend the course. Especially for younger people who only work at a computer, like I do — this kind of physical activity is a wonderful counterbalance. And you learn a lot about yourself in the process.
