In-person classes
Visit our 2500 sq ft studio and learn everything from shoe construction to bag making and general leather work.
Explore moreVirtual classes
Design and build your own shoes or sneakers in the comfort of your own home. Our virtual classes are facilitated via Zoom.
explore moreShop now
Select leather working tools, kits, and our collection of premium leathers. We’d be happy to sell you a little or a lot!
shopAbout us
Built with leather
Chicago School of Shoemaking & Leather Arts (CSOS) provides in-person and online leather arts workshops and courses. CSOS is conveniently located in Ravenswood for students at all levels to learn the “lost art” of leather arts and shoemaking.
+75
combined years of shoemaking experience
+150
combined years of leatherwork experience
+2108
shoes, boots, and sandals created
We’ve reached a 10 year milestone with our footwear programs.
Chicago School of Shoemaking was founded by Sara McIntosh, a Master Cobbler. Sara has made more than 10,000 pairs of shoes and is delighted to share the excitement of creating a first pair with her students.