Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship
Craftmanship
The clothing industry contributes 10% of the pollution driving the climate crisis. It is also a major driver in unethical labor practices around the world. Yet, it doesn't have to be that way.
At Solana, we are committed to using the finest earth-friendly materials available to us and to doing our part to combat the climate crisis.
In terms of quality, we do not cut corners nor exploit workers. Our shoes are handmade. For espadrilles, this means hand stitching the upper and hand sewing the jute cording. The other espadrille makers do not do this because it's time intensive and costly, but we believe it's worth it. You will see and feel the difference -- your shoes will last for years, not months.
Watch the our video and read through the steps below to see how our shoes are made at this exclusive, family-run atelier in Spain.
Step 1
Designing + Drawing the Shoe's Model
We begin the process by designing and drawing the model and developing the shoe last. The pattern maker then adjusts the model to the last and creates cut cardboard pieces that are used as patterns for cutting the shoe's fabric.
Step 2
Cut + Embroider Fabric Components
We take the cardboard pieces received from the model maker and the fabric is then cut to shape for all components of the shoe. These pieces are then sent to the embroiderer to embroider the shoe designs. For both the fabric upper and the embroidery we use certified recycled materials.
Step 3
First Quality Check + Lining Reinforcement
The pieces and embroidery are checked for quality and then reinforced (stitched) with an inner lining for comfort and to prevent breakage. We use certified recycled materials for all our lining and threading.
Step 4
Planet Friendly Soles + Natural Jute Midsoles
For our outsole, we use plastic removed from the ocean. This outsole, which we love for both its beauty and benefit to the planet, is then thermo-sealed to the 100% plant-based jute midsole.
Step 5
Hand Sewing the Natural Jute Cording
After the jute midsole and outsoles are joined, the craftsman hand sews them to the upper using natural jute cording. At our atelier, we place great emphasis on quality of cording to last for years.
Step 6
Shaping the Shoe
After the cording is hand-sewn, the shoe last is reinserted and the shoe is macerated to soften the materials. The shoe is then passed through an oven in order to tighten the materials to the last. This step is when all the pieces "come together."
Step 7
Final Preparation + Quality Check
After passing through the ovens, the shoe last remains inside the shoe for two hours to dry and seal the shape. The last is then removed and the heel insert is added. The shoes are then checked for quality, cleaned, and prepared for the box.
