Sponsored by bespoke shoemakers Carréducker, the Craft of Shoemaking Award has been launched to celebrate and encourage the heritage craft of handsewn shoemaking. Judge Fiona Campbell said, ‘Heritage craft is under threat, and we need the weight of the Cordwainers to highlight this issue and promote shoemaking.’ The winning entry will receive a package in the form of specialist training of over 100+ hours at the Carréducker School, covering pattern making, closing techniques and handsewn shoemaking.

The Judges

Fiona Campbell, bespoke footwear specialist and visiting lecturer at the London College of Fashion

Liveryman Sarah Day, formerly Course Leader at the London College of Fashion and external examiner at Capel Manor College

Freeman Michael James, managing director of Springline Lasts, a highly skilled bespoke lastmaker

Sebastian Tarek, talented bespoke shoemaker. Former tutor at Capel Manor College and visiting lecturer at the Royal College of Art, London.