Medieval time shoemaker use what to make a shoes?

Answer 1

We are fortunate to have the late 12th century writings of Alexander Neckham, who was an observer and chronicler of many of the ordinary, day-to-day trivia of his time. He gives a reliable and accurate first-hand account of many ordinary things, including the work of English shoemakers.

Shoemakers (unlike cobblers or savetiers) made new shoes using a sharp knife and leather blackened with dye. The upper was stitched to the sole with the shoe inside-out, using an awl to make holes, a curved needle and thread made from pig's bristles. Once finished the shoes were turned right side out - hence "turn shoes". They have no heel, simply a flat sole of thick leather.

Many shoes from the same period have been preserved in wet conditions at York and along the Thames waterfront in London. From these it is possible to see exactly how the stitching was done and the shape of the pieces of leather. It is also possible to identify the kinds of leather used: goat, deer and calf skins seem to be the most frequently used.

Shoes were not always black; many were left a natural tan colour. Some shoes were decorated with coloured silk embroidered lines along the instep.

The idea that medieval shoes were made of wool or felt is completely false.