What To Know
- If the soles are glued on, use a heat gun or hairdryer to soften the glue before attempting to remove them.
- Place the old soles on top of the new soles and trace their outline with a pencil.
- Using a leather punch, create holes along the edges of the soles, where you will stitch them to the moccasins.
Moccasins, with their soft leather and comfortable fit, are a beloved footwear choice for many. But like all shoes, they eventually wear down, especially the soles. Rather than tossing out your favorite pair, learn how to resole moccasins and give them a new lease on life. Resoling moccasins is a rewarding DIY project that can save you money and extend the lifespan of your cherished footwear.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you embark on your moccasin resoling adventure, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials:
- New soles: Choose leather or rubber soles, depending on your preference and the intended use of the moccasins. Leather soles offer a classic look and are ideal for indoor wear, while rubber soles provide better grip and durability for outdoor use.
- Leather glue: Opt for a high-quality, flexible leather glue specifically designed for footwear.
- Sharp knife or razor blade: This is for trimming the soles and excess glue.
- Hammer: A rubber mallet is preferred, but a regular hammer will do.
- Leather punch: This tool is used to create holes for stitching.
- Heavy-duty thread: Choose a strong thread that matches the color of your moccasins.
- Sewing needle: A curved needle is ideal for stitching leather.
- Scissors: For trimming the thread and other materials.
- Clamps: These are helpful for holding the soles in place while the glue dries.
Preparing the Moccasins
Once you have your supplies ready, it’s time to prepare your moccasins for resoling.
1. Remove the old soles: Carefully detach the old soles from the moccasins. If the soles are glued on, use a heat gun or hairdryer to soften the glue before attempting to remove them. If the soles are stitched on, carefully cut the stitches with a sharp knife.
2. Clean the moccasins: Thoroughly clean the moccasins with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow them to dry completely before proceeding.
3. Inspect the moccasins: Check for any damage to the leather, such as cracks or tears. If you find any, repair them before proceeding with resoling.
Cutting and Preparing the New Soles
Now, it’s time to prepare the new soles for your moccasins.
1. Trace the old soles: Place the old soles on top of the new soles and trace their outline with a pencil.
2. Cut the new soles: Carefully cut the new soles along the traced lines. Use a sharp knife or razor blade for a clean cut.
3. Sand the edges: Smooth out any rough edges on the new soles with sandpaper. This will ensure a smooth transition between the soles and the moccasins.
Gluing the New Soles
With the new soles cut and prepared, you can begin the gluing process.
1. Apply glue to the moccasins: Apply a generous layer of leather glue to the bottom of the moccasins. Ensure you cover the entire surface where the new sole will be attached.
2. Apply glue to the new soles: Also, apply a layer of glue to the bottom of the new soles.
3. Align and press the soles: Carefully align the new soles with the moccasins, ensuring they are centered and flush with the edges. Press the soles firmly onto the moccasins, making sure to distribute the pressure evenly.
4. Clamp the soles: Secure the soles in place using clamps. Apply pressure to ensure a strong bond.
5. Allow the glue to dry: Let the glue dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may take several hours or overnight.
Stitching the New Soles
Once the glue has dried, you can stitch the new soles to the moccasins for added durability.
1. Punch holes: Using a leather punch, create holes along the edges of the soles, where you will stitch them to the moccasins. Space the holes evenly, ensuring they are large enough for the thread to pass through.
2. Thread the needle: Thread the sewing needle with heavy-duty thread, leaving a long tail at the end.
3. Stitch the soles: Begin stitching from the inside of the moccasins, passing the needle through the holes you punched. Use a strong, even stitch, ensuring the thread is secure.
4. Tie off the thread: Once you have stitched all the way around the soles, tie off the thread securely on the inside of the moccasins.
Finishing Touches
With the new soles glued and stitched in place, your moccasins are almost ready to wear.
1. Trim excess glue: Use a sharp knife or razor blade to carefully trim away any excess glue that has seeped out from the edges.
2. Condition the leather: Apply a leather conditioner to the moccasins to keep the leather soft and supple.
Enjoy Your Resoled Moccasins
Congratulations! You have successfully resoled your moccasins. Now, you can enjoy your revitalized footwear for many more adventures to come.
The Art of Extending Your Moccasin’s Life
Resoling your moccasins is just one step in ensuring their longevity. Here are some additional tips to keep your moccasins in top condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your moccasins regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap. Remove dirt and debris to prevent damage to the leather.
- Conditioning: Apply leather conditioner to your moccasins regularly to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.
- Proper Storage: Store your moccasins in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Avoid Excessive Wear: Avoid wearing your moccasins in harsh conditions, such as mud or snow, as this can damage the leather.
The Final Step: A New Life for Your Moccasins
Resoling your moccasins is a rewarding experience that allows you to give your favorite footwear a new lease on life. By following these steps, you can extend the lifespan of your moccasins and continue to enjoy their comfort and style for years to come.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I resole moccasins with different types of soles?
A: Yes, you can resole moccasins with different types of soles, such as leather, rubber, or even suede. The choice depends on your preference and the intended use of the moccasins.
Q: How often should I resole my moccasins?
A: The frequency of resoling moccasins depends on how often you wear them and the type of soles. Generally, you should resole them when the soles start to wear down or show signs of cracking or damage.
Q: Can I resole moccasins with a sewing machine?
A: It is possible to use a sewing machine to stitch the new soles to the moccasins, but it requires a specialized machine designed for leather. Most standard sewing machines are not suitable for stitching leather.
Q: What are some alternatives to resoling moccasins?
A: If you are not comfortable resoling your moccasins yourself, you can take them to a professional cobbler or shoe repair shop. They can resole your moccasins with high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Q: What are some tips for choosing the right soles for my moccasins?
A: Consider the intended use of your moccasins when choosing the right soles. For indoor wear, leather soles are a good option, while rubber soles are more durable for outdoor use. If you need extra grip, choose soles with a tread pattern.
