a very dear friend was a shoe maker many many years ago, he passed away over 35 years ago, but his handiwork always amazed me and as I watch you repair shoes it makes me remember him in his shop toiling away and making old shoes new again. thank you for the videos you do it brings back such happy memories for me. and yes I learn a thing or two to boot!

I have always liked Steve's appreciation of small things like birds waking up. It must beat the hell out of bombs and gun fire in Beirut he experienced in his youth. That was a phenomenal restoration. I wondered if the cross hatch leather would be too heavily coated to accept the various conditioners and color. I guess not. Great job! I have to say though, remarkable knife skills and all that is used is a utility knife. Wow!

@ticctacc

Жыл бұрын

Yeah I thought that too - his appreciation of seemingly minor things is a glimpse of his good soul. It’s unfortunate that he doesn’t have an apprentice to learn the art and carry on the trade down the track, if not the name.

@akcland5349

10 ай бұрын

@@ticctaccGood news is that you can learn a lot by watching his videos, no telling how many virtual ‘apprentices’ he has that he’ll probably never meet. His name and craft will never fully end with him because of what he’s shared with the world. There’s something transcendent and beautiful about that imo.

@akcland5349

10 ай бұрын

Same here, I love shoe making and re-crafting videos, but something about him appreciating birds in the morning just adds more depth to his video, showing not only the beauty of the craft, but the beauty of nature and of his spirit.

@emiliamassot8827

6 ай бұрын

@@akcland5349

@flightschoolcustomfootwear

2 ай бұрын

I am one of Steve's virtual apprentices and I can't tell you how much I have learned from Steve. I also have a love for the amazing nature sounds in this beautiful world. I have not met Steve but it is definitely on my bucket list to travel from Florida to Falls Church, Virginia and visit Steve & Bedo's Leatherworks. I will make it happen very soon too! I am so grateful for Steve, his channel & everything I have learned from him along the way. LET'S CONTINUE!

I find watching professionals practice their respective craft very relaxing. It’s a beautiful relationship between an artist and his audience.

As someone who’s a beginning, apprenticing cobbler, I LOVE your videos. We’re CRUSHED with work just like you are, and I feel guilty there’s not more I can do because I’m only learning. Lots of lady’s heels and polishing for me currently, but watching your videos gives me knowledge and perspective that is similar and/or additional to what my cobbler mentor is teaching me. I went to six different cobblers who all said no to teaching me before I found this current place. I think there is a section of older, cranky guys who don’t want to train a newer generation combined with the shear AMOUNT of work that needs to be done and another section of old timers who simply don’t feel they have TIME to train, which both isn’t helping the industry, in my opinion. Thank you for your hard work and your videos, because they’re invaluable to me and future cobblers. 🙏🏻

@Calebre_

Жыл бұрын

Same, which cobbler are you working at?

@YoYoRaeRae

Жыл бұрын

@@Calebre_, I’m in Milwaukee.

Nothing is more pleasurable to watch than people with masterful skills in their respective craft who explain their work as they actually do what they do with pride. Great stuff, this video.

"We are living in an age of abundance, why not share the wealth" is a great quote, I'm saving that my collection of good quotes. Switching gears, I just figured something out. Folks ask - "why spend $'s repairing when you can buy new for the same or similar money?" My grandfather restored Model A Fords. He put more money into them then he would ever get selling them (especially in his labor), and far more than what a new car would cost. So why did he do it? To preserve history, to have something unusual, something different. I think there are many parallels between restoring old cars and restoring old shoes. A new pair of shoes are a new pair of shoes. A rebuilt / restored pair is a piece of history! Thanks for keeping history alive Steve!

I’m 56 and when I first started school my Dad had me a pair of shoes made by our local cobbler and I was amazed at those shoes. He would take them along with my brother and sisters shoes to have them repaired. To me it was special, and today I think it’s a privilege to have a cobbler repair my shoes.

I'm not a cobbler. I've never owned a pair of shoes that was nice enough to warrant rebuilding when they wear out. I still watch your videos because they are interesting and because the level of detail you employ appeals to me as a craftsman. You're doing a great job for your customers and on your video presentation. Thank you for sharing your craft.

The things this man can accomplish with shoes, boots, bags, and jackets is nothing short of ASTONISHING.

I've loved your videos for years; it's so cool to see that old school craftsmanship still exists. The before and after fade-to photos at the end were amazing! Keep doing that!

I started watching your videos just for entertainment and out of curiosity some years ago. At that time I started working at a bank, so I had to wear a suit and dress shoes every day. When the first repairs on my shoes had to be done, I tried doing them on my own, based on the things I learned from you and your videos (basic heel repair etc.). Some time later I bought an old outsolestitcher and tried more complicated repairs. Today I`m doing everything shoe related on my own, including resoles, new insoles, rewelting on shoes I bought used and all of that is only possible because of you and your videos. Thank you for all the work you put into them and for teaching me and many others.

And then there are many - like me - who just enjoy the craft - I find the live craft-at-work very soothing.

I to have come to the end of the family business as my son and daughter have their own careers ,we started in 1959 , l joined in 1974 to help out for 2 weeks ! At 76 I'm semi retired and just restore old British motorcycles ,I watch all you videos because 1,l like you style and humour 2,love to watch a real craftsman at work ! Best wishes from the UK

Another amazing restoration job! I am writing from South Louisiana. I started watching your videos years ago. I found you while searching for information on shoe cleaning. I was buying higher end used shoes to sell on eBay, and I wanted to make sure I was cleaning them correctly. I was an instant fan and subscribed immediately. Fast forward to March 2023, about 2 months ago, when I landed my dream job. I am now sewing handbags from wild, Louisiana alligator hides. We use cow leathers and pig suede for the linings. I've never worked with leather, and I am fascinated by the entire process. We also take in repairs, and I always ask myself, "What would Steve do?" Thank you for the amazing, informative videos. And thank you for the tour of your shop. I can truly appreciate the work you are doing. Your love for your craft is evident in everything you do.

You are not just a cobbler, you my dear sir are a rare artist that works from the depths of your soul ( no pun intended). If you want birds, put bird feeders in the trees you want them in, works for me. ❤

Not only are Steve’s skills beyond masterful, but is anyone else fascinated by the equipment and tools being used? If it hasn’t already been done, I’d love Steve to do a show and tell on what everything does and how he maintains them. Love your videos Steve!

@Breecebuilt

11 ай бұрын

Agreed, the machines are amazing!

"You take one of these tools and you scratch the shit out of it." That came through loud and clear. 😀

craftsman have a never ending problem, quality brings in customers, too many customers lowers quality (not enough time). dont ever lower your standards because the work you do is fantastic!

Hey Steve, this was a really terrific transformation. I liked the way you flashed back and forth at the end showing before and after pics.

We are spoilt now Steve! We now have bath time as well as hammer time, ha!ha! P.s love the philosophy segment too, very wise words my friend.

Choose a career you love and you will never work a day in your life... I was an engineer; a good one. The greatest joy I had was passing on that which I had learned, to others so they may excel. Knowledge is a gift to be shared.

As a non cobbler I find value in learning what I should expect from a home based cobbler prior to making a decision regarding a repair. Thanks

Steve, I am not a cobbler, never will be. (My dad did leather work as a hobby, but he never got a chance to pass it on. He passed the week after he retired. His was more in the way of belt, harness, and wallet work, since that's what he learned from the late Eli Miller of Mesopotamia, Ohio.) But your channel helps me take care of my shoes and leather goods better. Plus, knowledge is power. You demonstrate the basic knowledge, and if I need or want to, I can build on it. Some may take enjoyment from seeing the process, others might find tips and tricks for their own business, some are probably just curious. You are sharing and curating a trade and skills that need to be remembered. Sort of like the British Pathé films, but more in depth and no annoying music cluttering up the video. P. S. It's none of my business, but I noticed your hands shake. I suffer from Essential Tremor, so there are times that I can thread a Landis while it's running at full speed. Whatever is up with that, I hope your health is good and remains that way for a long long time.

Another very interesting transformation. I believe many of us who enjoy your videos and know absolutely nothing about shoe repair watch out os appreciation of a craftsman practicing his craft. Thank you

Must be birdie feeding time and 5am to you.. ty for your program, Steve...let's continue!

Steve, I hope you will see this message. I fell asleep last night to the tv on, and woke up very early this morning to this video playing. I have no idea why it was playing. I’m an archaeologist. Far from being a cobbler. I opened my eyes to watch, and you took a moment to talk to us about what you do and why you do it. You talked about loving what you do, and how our lives can end in a couple of minutes, and if you don’t love what you do, then get out and find something else. I’m 55 now and for most of my career I’ve been happy. I’ve loved my job. Until the last three years. I am now working for a company that I despise. I was duped in my interview, and I got lied to. I was made promises that did not happen. I hate going to work every day. I despise the unscrupulous owner of the company. This job is making me sick. For the last year I’ve been looking for something else, but there is nothing in my area. I even looked into jobs outside my field but nothing. I’m not sure what I’m going to do, but your message in this video was a confirmation that I absolutely need to get out of there. I cannot bear it anymore. I’m subscribing now and I look forward to watching more of your videos. It’s fascinating to watch! Thank you! 🙏🏻

@BedosLeatherworksLLC

Жыл бұрын

I’m sure in time you will figure it out just like every problem has a solution so is your situation could work out, be patient and do what’s best for you. Good luck

Steve, Rance here….your videos never disappoint always tops. I knew that you are very busy and appreciate your work. Keep on keeping on!

I love the technical terms you use.... " you scratch the shit out of it "

This is truly an unbelievable transformation. It's wonderful to watch a master craftsman at work.

Steve is a philosopher who happens to repair shoes.

That's a stunning job as always, Steve! Your love and expertise has given those Ferragamo boots many more years of love and enjoyment for the owner! Take care and keep up the great work! 😉😎

Of all the you tubers in leather and shoe restoration, your is truly the very best.

I'd love to work in a shop like yours! Shoe and leather repairs have always been my passion but here in Austria it's not such a big thing as in the US... So I've to do it just for family and friends...

@geraldgoll

8 ай бұрын

Easily the best craftsman on the KZread.

Not a cobbler, don't plan on becoming a cobbler, I watch to view your artistic work.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 unbelievable. Gorgeous.

For me it is watching quality repairs. This pair looks almost new again. I hope he was pleased with the repair

I have learned all manner of leatherworking things from Steve that I do use. I am a leatherworker (amateur) and not a cobbler. I made moccasins for my grandson until he got to school. I am the only person in the world who, in the context of the movie "Coco", thinks it's way cooler that Miguel's family makes shoes than if they were making music...LOL

Birds always wake up happy, one of life’s special moments! Wow, what a superb job on those chukkas, better than new!

The reveal was like a GE "bringing good things to life".

Steve , you never cease to amaze me . Your knowledge and skill is absolutely amazing . I really appreciate your insight and the fact that you appreciate the little things in life . The birds singing in the morning, the breeze blowing through the trees . Always enjoy every single video and appreciate you taking the time to make them with your busy schedule!

Nailed it with the thumbnail! I sometimes missed a video as it wasn't very clear. :)

Thank you Steve for another great video! I have learned so much about shoe and boot construction from watching your videos that I have been able to build my own pair of work boots. The fact that you share your techniques and opinions of different materials is priceless. Thank you for the education!!!

Greetings from Sierra Vista Arizona! I love watching a master craftsman going about their work. And you my friend are a MASTER craftsman! I'm a retired union ironworker.

Geez Louise. Looks like you have work for the next 45 years!! I love seeing videos whenever you can do them.

Steve, you are a master of your trade. I appreciate the knowledge that you share. You do not do shoe repairs, you do shoe cpr. These shoes looked like they were on life support. Great work my man.

Hey return of the Swedish Bath! One of my favorite signature Steve moves 👍

So I'm sitting here watching this vid, and when you did the reveal, I said out loud "Holy Sh*t! " Wife comes in the room and says "What's wrong!?!" Then she looks at my phone and says "Oh. Damn, you should get a pair of those." Nice work as always 👍

I, for one, greatly appreciate the detail you show and the explanation of techniques. I just restore and repair shoes as a hobby, but it's brought me a lot of joy and satisfaction. My dream would be to do it for a living someday. I know that will never happen, but at least I can enjoy doing it for myself.

We live in a disposable society. I prefer to keep things useful and usable as long as possible. The talent along with the obvious pride that you put into your work is what keeps me watching. Thanks so much.

I'm not a cobbler, but I love all your explanations. I live in an area where there aren't any cobblers I trust especially at the prices they charge, so I've done some very amateur cobbling with my boots- added sole protectors and replaced toplifts. Recently did my first partial resole. It's not perfect, but I know I didn't destroy my boots either. That was gleaned from your videos. And that's all ignoring the fact that your channel is down right interesting, entertaining, informative, and relaxing.

Easily the best craftsman on the internet.

Спасибо, дорогой товарищ, что показываешь нам то, что показываешь. Очень интересно и познавательно!

Another excellent example of your incredible master craftsmanship!!! I watch what you do and am-in pure awww. I’m sad your on the opposite side of the US or I would be volunteering at your shop multiple times a week just to learn. Thank You!!!

As you said, not everyone who watches your videos is a cobbler. My dad used to make shoes, and I have an attraction to quality shoes and quality workmanship with regards to repairing them. I really admire your work.

11:41 to 11:52 - "I wish the whole enclave of birds would move from 'over there' to 'here'." •••Put out a bird feeder and a suet feeder then wait a few days. Your enclave will find its way to easy breakfast! They will also come around the rest of the day to get a top-up!••• You seem like a very kind man to both people and animals! Thanks for sharing a little of your world 🙂🙃🙂 Good luck and happy 'hammer time'! 🔨 🛠 ⚒

Think I'd go crazy with that much work in front of me. Great job Steve. Thanks

This is one of your best videos. I loved how you brought back the condition of the shoes as well as the general sole repair. Your stories and philosophy of life made these videos very special.

Amazing restoration Steve, you really brought Frankenstein back from the dead!😂

Love your philosophy, I sew, make and design quilts and it is something I love to do, not my business but my hobby. So relaxing to watch what you do. I have dozen or so Ferragamo shoes I've had for years, they are lasting me! Im pretty sure they look better than when they were brand new, awesome work, you truly put love into your talent!

Steve is seriously incredible

I absolutely loved this video! The positive vibes were contagious, and I found myself smiling and feeling inspired throughout the entire thing. The editing was fantastic, and the message was so uplifting. It's the perfect pick-me-up for anyone who needs a little boost of positivity in their day. Highly recommend!

I want to screw up a pair of shoes just so I can send one to you to fix them because you always make stuff look so much better than it did originally!

Hey Steve. You left the secret sauce showing on the floor. 🤣 Awesome work as always.

Phenomenal craftsmanship - a true artisan.

Just a genuinely good man. Hard working and honest. 👍

Such pleasure to watch someone who loves what they do and such perfection. Thank you for sharing.

They look amazing ❤ It's so nice that there are people out there that appreciate some of the things they have, and are willing to get them done properly, instead getting new things. ❤ Great job ❤❤

Another one Steve! I love your channel, and just love watching you work! It’s not like I’m gonna run out and start cobbling shoes 😂😂😂. It’s just very intriguing, comforting and relaxing! Those boots came out Incredibly well! Worlds away from beginning to end. Wow

Thank you for sharing I always enjoy seeing your working it reminds me of watching my grandfather when I was young after he retired he brought his machines to a shop in his back yard and continued working part time until he couldn;t Thank you for sharing I really enjoy your videos 👍👍

Steve, I hope you are proud of your work. It is amazing. Doing the correct steps in the correct order produces near new results. Terrific. PS: I am not a cobbler. I still learn stuff from you. Bick 4. Master's contact cement. Fiebings Pro Dye. Yup. Old dog learning new things.

Wow, these boots look superb. This colour is in my vision one of the coolest for boots and shoes. You did perfect. I very much like how the soles turned out too. Very, very elegant boots. A true cobbler like you are, Steve, is like a ultra rare bird which almost no one ever gets to see. Trust me on this. I never met anyone who does proper and by the book repairs and restorations like you do. I wish there would be someone like you were I live, but saddly there isn't.

I was up at 4:30 this morning helping my wife load for the farmers market and the birds were starting to wake up and sing. Sometimes we have beauty all around us and we’re to busy stressing about what we have no control over. That’s one of the reasons why I love this channel so much. Thank you, Steve! Love you man!

Very nice! Said it before and I will say it again. Love how the remake looks, better than new!

Thanks for introducing us to your friends!

Love the random safety pin on the work counter :)

A great colour and lovely textured leather

I appreciate the message around 14:00. I've learned a lot from different channels how to do cobbler jobs, since I could not for the life of me find a decent cobbler in my hometown who could repair goodyear welted shoes beside some famous shoemakers (Vass, Rozsnyai, Dunay) who only repair the shoes they make. Fortunately we have retailers who can get good quality leathers and tools, so the job could be made, in you are willing to learn the techniques, but of course it takes time, and I just began to do the work.

Awesome work as always!

Hi Steve sorry for the late comment, if you want those little friend to be in your backyard, just install a bird feeder, I did here and they are always signing, now they stay put when I move in the backyard because they know I will not hurt them. Soon they will be perching on my finger. Great video as always. Tks so much for that.

What a transformation. Looking at the before, one might have thought they were ready for the trash. Then comes the master and you brought them back to life. Thanks for sharing the videos with us.

A Master at his craft. I'll be there in a few days. You have a new customer for life!

I really just love watching a master at work.😊

I really like all your videos. I know now how to look at a pair of shoes and tell if its good quality because of your videos. Thank you so much for that. I like the early morning sounds, its so peaceful. Another amazing job you did. Have a nice week. Francine, a canadian fan.

Hi Nick here from Portugal, been a cobbler for many years, and as I say I'm learning everyday, love your videos, keep up the great work

We hope you’ll continue in this business at a responsible pace for years to come! Thank You !

Awesome work

Yessir, always a blessing to see an upload from Steve.

Steve, you have a lot of work to do. I wish it was always like this. 24:54 - masonic sword and masonic dagger and belt of the WWII .It was very interesting to see what you do with them.

I can't believe the transformation !

Your philosophy on life and work is spot on, Steve! Excellent job, too.

There should be more than just a like button on your channel Steve. There should be a LOVE button because you also share life philosophy like what you shared on this video which is sharing the abundance. IMHO sharing wealth of information is a way to build ones legacy, and like what you mentioned life can end in a minute. Thank you for sharing this video and your sharing philosophy. I love your channel, I love the work you put out and the dedication that goes along with it. Cheers and "Let's continue"...

Wonderfully done!

Once again great job!

Thank you for sharing. Hammer time.

Great job!!! I look forward to your videos when they are posted

Look at all that work…!!..the money money cha ching……..your Raking it in my man good luck to you your a true craftsman 👍🏻🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

Oh my gosh, those turned out great!

When I saw the condition of the shoes, I never thought I would see them so clean after the little magic bath. Congratulations Steve, because as usual you offer us your magic.

You must be a good and honest person, stay blessed.

Good content. I’m not a cobbler but I appreciate knowing what goes into great craftsmanship. 👍

Great job Steve let’s continue 👍