The manufacture of high-quality Goodyear welted shoes remains very labour-intensive, requiring a highly skilled workforce to carry out more than 200 separate operations during an 8 week period. This method, originated by hand-makers centuries ago, gives the shoes an exceptional degree of strength, durability and comfort in wear.
The Goodyear welted process spans several production departments, each necessitating a multitude of different skills and experiences to ensure the shoes are completed to our exacting standards. Many of the operations, relying on excellent hand-eye coordination, take years to learn and a lifetime to master.
Stage One
Once a design or style is approved by our Managing Director, it is carefully reviewed with our skilled pattern team.
Pattern cutting is the foundation of every pair we create. At Turkish Shoes, we believe that precision at this stage defines everything that follows — because when a pattern is perfected from the start, the final shoe reflects excellence in fit, comfort, and finish.
Stage Two
The Clicking Department marks the first stage of production at Turkish Shoes, where each shoe begins to take shape. This is where our skilled craftsmen carefully cut the leather uppers, selecting and shaping every piece with precision.
Here, experience matters. Senior artisans handle the finest upper leathers, while emerging craftsmen begin with lining materials — learning the discipline, techniques, and standards passed down through years of hands-on expertise.
Stage Three
The Closing stage is where individual leather components are brought together to form the finished upper. At this point, precision becomes everything. Detailed operations such as brogue perforation, raw-edge staining, hand-sewing, and machine stitching are carefully executed, before eyelets are perfectly set in place.
Our Closing Room artisans are highly skilled specialists, relying on exceptional hand-eye coordination to ensure every upper meets Turkish Shoes’ exacting standards.
Stage Four
Preparation is the stage where all essential components are brought together in readiness for shoemaking. At Turkish Shoes, many of these elements are produced in-house to maintain full control over quality and consistency.
From shaping heels to cutting insoles and soles, each component is carefully prepared within dedicated workshops that work in harmony with the main production floor — ensuring every pair begins with a strong, reliable foundation.
Stage Five
At Turkish Shoes, Lasting is the stage where the upper is carefully pulled over the last, giving the shoe its final shape and character. The last forms the foundation of every pair — defining fit, balance, and comfort.
Developed through experience and refinement, our lasts are continuously reviewed and evolved to meet modern comfort expectations while preserving the timeless proportions that define Turkish Shoes.
Stage Six
The Making stage is where construction truly comes to life. This is where our Goodyear-welting machines are used to securely bind the upper, insole, and welt together — a process renowned for its strength, durability, and long-term comfort.
This meticulous method allows each pair of Turkish Shoes to maintain its structure over time, while also enabling resoling for extended wear and longevity.
Stage Seven
The Finishing stage is where attention to detail is paramount.
Here, our experienced finishing team perfects the soles through careful cleaning, preparation, and hand-finishing — ensuring every pair reflects the quality, balance, and refinement that Turkish Shoes stands for.
Stage Eight
In the Shoe Room, every detail is checked one last time.
From polishing and inspection to lacing and packaging, each pair is completed with care — ready to be worn with confidence.
Begin our
Our Factory Tour takes you through each stage of production — where craftsmanship, quality control, and attention to detail define Turkish Shoes.
