Alexandria Wills
Alexandria Wills is a Chicago-based shoemaker and fashion designer specializing in handcrafted footwear, custom leatherwork, and immersive shoemaking workshops.
As Seen on…
Made With Love is an Emmy Award-winning PBS documentary series that celebrates traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage across the globe. It takes viewers inside the hidden workshops and studios of master creators—from glassblowers and bootmakers to chefs—to highlight the passion and generations of knowledge behind handmade goods.
Stream the episode on PBS Passport:
https://video.wttw.com/video/america-made-with-love-part-2-eemzl2/
Or go to PBS.org and search ‘Made With Love: America Part 2’
Alexandria Wills Shoemaking Studio
About
Alexandria Wills is a shoe maker & fashion designer based in Chicago, IL. Everything is designed and hand crafted to unique client measurements.
We specialize in custom orders, limited releases, and exclusive collections of items. You may follow daily work & process via Instagram.
Shoemaking classes are accessible for all skill levels. Workshops are taught on weekends and weekdays, in Chicago’s Pilsen Arts District. Find out more in the Workshops tab.
Items available in store are ready-made meaning you can walk in and purchase your favorite shoe. Please set up a shopping appointment via Contact Form Items online are made to order unless otherwise listed. You may order specific styles available in our Shop or inquire about custom projects via Custom Order Form
Alexandria Wills Shoemaking Studio
1909 S Halsted, Chicago, IL 60608
LEARN TO MAKE SHOES
Step into Alexandria Wills Shoemaking Studio to learn the traditional techniques of hand crafting your own pair of beautiful shoes. All skill levels welcome! Learn more in ‘Workshops’ tab and read google reviews below from all our wonderful students.
Shoemaking Workshop: Mules
$400.00
Make Your Own Shoes — In One Day
Design and create your own pair of handmade shoes in this immersive beginner-friendly workshop. You'll learn the fundamentals of shoemaking while crafting custom footwear using professional materials and techniques.
Perfect for creatives, fashion lovers, date nights, team outings, or anyone looking for a unique hands-on experience.
What’s Included
All materials and tools
Guided instruction
Custom sizing and design options
Your completed handmade shoes
Workshop Details
1 day
Beginner Friendly
Small Group Setting
1909 S Halsted, Chicago IL 60608
11 am-6pm
Flexible Date Gift Option - Choose TBD to choose the date later, no expiration
Shoemaking Workshop: Heels
$400.00
Craft Your Own Handmade Heels
Step into the world of luxury shoemaking and create your own custom pair of heels in this intimate workshop experience. Learn professional footwear techniques while designing a pair tailored to your style and fit.
This workshop combines fashion, craftsmanship, and creativity into an unforgettable experience.
Workshop Includes
Hands-on instruction
All materials provided
Custom design options
Finished handmade heels
Workshop Details
1 day
Beginner Friendly
Small Group Setting
1909 S Halsted, Chicago IL 60608
11 am-6pm
Flexible Date Gift Option - Choose TBD to choose the date later, no expiration
Shoemaking Workshop: Sneakers
$400.00
Design & Build Your Own Sneakers
Create your own custom sneakers from scratch in this hands-on shoemaking experience led by Alexandria Wills. Learn the basics of sneaker construction, material selection, and footwear design while building a pair that reflects your personal style.
No experience necessary — just bring your creativity.
Perfect For
Beginners
Fashion enthusiasts
Creative experiences
Private groups & events
Gift experiences
Included
Premium materials
Tools & instruction
Custom sneaker design guidance
Your finished handmade sneakers
Workshop Details
1 day
Beginner Friendly
Small Group Setting
1909 S Halsted, Chicago IL 60608
11 am-6pm
Flexible Date Gift Option - Choose TBD to choose the date later, no expiration
Shoemaking Workshop: Derbys
$600.00
Advance Your Shoemaking Skills
Continue your shoemaking journey with this intermediate-level Derby shoe workshop led by Alexandria Wills. Designed for students with prior shoemaking experience, this class focuses on more advanced construction techniques while guiding you through the process of creating a custom pair of Derby-style shoes.
Refine your craftsmanship, expand your technical skills, and leave with professionally constructed handmade footwear.
You’ll Learn
Intermediate shoemaking techniques
Derby pattern construction
Advanced assembly and finishing methods
Fit, structure, and material handling
Workshop Includes
Premium materials and tools
Guided instruction
Personalized design support
Your completed handmade Derby shoes
Recommended For
Returning students, creatives, and aspiring footwear designers with beginner shoemaking experience.
Workshop Details
Intermediate Level
Small Group Setting
1909 S Halsted, Chicago IL 60608
11 am-6pm
Flexible Date Gift Option - Choose TBD to choose the date later, no expiration
Video by Malik Lemon & Jacob King Music by Sarah the Illstrumentalist
Press…
Click below to learn more about Alexandria Wills through interviews, articles, and various local features.
Shoemaking Events…
Alexandria Wills hosts unique experiential workshops and demonstrations for corporate events, birthday parties, and professional development. Please use the ‘Contact Form’ to inquire
