How to become a shoe repairer or shoemaker
Official title: Shoe repairers and shoemakers
Also called: Shoe dyer, Shoemaker, Boot repairer, Shoe repairer, Custom shoemaker, Orthopedic shoemaker, Shoe mender - retail, Shoe repairer - retail, Orthopedic shoe repairman/woman, Cobbler, Bootmaker
Shoe repairers repair footwear and shoemakers make specialized and custom shoes and boots. They are employed in shoe repair shops or custom shoemaking establishments, or they may be self-employed.
Main tasks
- Shoemakers
- Discuss type of footwear to be made and obtain measurements from customer
- Select patterns and leather or other material and outline and cut patterns
- Select or assemble lasts, fasten insoles to lasts and sew or glue other parts into place
- Trim, dress and otherwise finish boots or shoes
- Estimate custom footwear costs and receive payment from customers
- May supervise other shoemakers and shoe repairers
- Shoe repairers
How to become one
Some secondary school may be required. Several months of on-the-job training is provided for shoe repairers. Extensive on-the-job training is provided for shoemakers. Shoemakers may require experience as shoe repairers.
Ways in
- College or CEGEP: College or CEGEP program. 31% of workers hold a college or other non-degree diploma (Census 2021). Common fields: Business administration, management and operations; Business operations support and assistant services; Liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities.
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $45,533 a year
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Questions people ask
How do I become a shoe repairer or shoemaker?
Some secondary school may be required. Several months of on-the-job training is provided for shoe repairers. Extensive on-the-job training is provided for shoemakers. Shoemakers may require experience as shoe repairers.
How much does a shoe repairer or shoemaker earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $45,533 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)).
Do you need a degree to become a shoe repairer or shoemaker?
Not always. 35% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: College or CEGEP program.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03