Shoe Repair Honor

Vocational Activities

Requirements

1. Name at least 5 essential parts of a shoe and explain their uses.

   Answer: • Upper: the top part, which covers the foot (leather/fabric). • Sole: the bottom part, which touches the ground and protects the foot. • Heel: raises and supports the heel of the foot. • Insole: inner lining, where the foot rests, providing comfort. • Toe cap: the tip of the shoe, which protects the toes. (Also the counter, which holds the heel firm.) — Knowing the parts of the shoe — upper, sole, heel, insole, and toe cap — is the starting point for repairing it.

2. Cite 3 different types of shoe sole. Which is the easiest to repair?

   Answer: Three types: leather sole, rubber sole, and synthetic sole (PVC, EVA). The leather sole is generally the easiest to repair, since it can be sewn, nailed, and glued, accepting repair and the replacement of a half-sole well. — Leather, rubber, and synthetic are the common soles; the leather one is the easiest to repair.

3. Wax a thread and, with 2 needles or waxed ends, repair a pair of shoes that has come apart. Use the double-stitch method to sew the leather.
4. Make a paper pattern for a half-sole and use it to cut half-soles of leather or rubber composition for a pair of shoes.
5. Make the half-sole of a pair of shoes by fastening it with cobbler's nails, making sure they are of the appropriate length.
6. Fit and fasten a pair of rubber heels.
7. What type of leather should be used to repair shoe soles? How is this type of leather usually tanned?

   Answer: 1) Type of leather for soles: sole leather is used — a thick, firm, and resistant leather, generally taken from the rump (the most robust part of the ox's hide), suitable for withstanding friction and weight when stepping. 2) How it is tanned: this leather is generally obtained by vegetable tanning, using tannins extracted from barks and plants. This process makes the leather rigid, full-bodied, and durable, ideal for soles. — The sole calls for a thick and firm leather, tanned with vegetable tannins to withstand walking.

8. Specify at least 3 factors that should be taken into consideration when selecting shoes.

   Answer: At least 3 factors when choosing a shoe: 1) Correct size and fit: the shoe should fit the length and width of the foot well, without pinching or being loose, leaving a small gap at the toe. 2) Comfort and support: a sole and insole that cushion and support the foot, an appropriate heel, avoiding pain and posture problems. 3) Purpose/use: choose according to the activity (walking, work, sports, dress) and the climate. 4) Material and quality: leather or material that breathes and is durable, with good stitching and finishing. 5) A fair price within the budget, considering durability.

9. Write or present to the examiners the proper methods of cleaning and caring for shoes.

   Answer: Care: remove dust and dirt with a brush or cloth; wash according to the material (leather should not be soaked); dry in the shade (never in strong sun or near fire); apply polish or moisturizer to the leather to preserve it; store in a ventilated place, using shoe trees or paper inside to keep the shape; and air them out between uses. — Cleaning, moisturizing the leather, drying in the shade, and storing it well makes the shoe last much longer.