Footwear or leather working trade - requirements

As a footwear and leather worker you’ll make and repair shoes and create and finish other leather or leather substitute goods such as bags, saddles, or belts. Learn more about a career in footwear and leather work trades, find out what it involves and what you’ll need to study and do to get a role.

Know what you'll need to land a job below.

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What qualifications do you need to be a footwear or leather worker?

An art and design degree will go a long way. Subjects to consider include:

Some footwear and leather working roles may prioritise practical ability over educational qualifications but bear in mind that career progress without formal training is usually very hard. This is why most footwear and leather workers have some form of relevant higher qualification.

Please note this is a beta version. We'll continue to improve our suggestions here so that we show you the most relevant subjects.

Do you need a postgraduate qualification to be a footwear and leather worker?

Most employers don’t ask for postgraduate qualifications for footwear and leather working trades but having one can boost your skills and subject knowledge.

Examples of taught MAs, MScs and certificates at postgraduate level include:

  • Conservation practice
  • Contemporary crafts
  • Leather finishing
  • Leather technology
  • Textile design

What skills do you need to be a footwear and leather worker?

Footwear and leather workers need technical cutting and sewing skills in addition to interpersonal skills when dealing with customers.

Hard skills usually include:
  • Operating machinery and other tools
  • Carpentry
  • Sewing
  • JavaScript
Soft skills include:
  • Detail-oriented
  • Maths
  • Customer service
  • Self-motivated
  • Innovative

Do you need work experience to be a footwear and leather worker?

If you study a relevant course in leather and textile production for example, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to start working in the trade. Courses are designed to be vocational so you are ready to work as soon as you finish your studies. However, employers may prefer to hire someone with experience of working with customers.

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