Blake stitching is the kind of stitching that you will look for if you're looking for stylish, affordable, and practical custom-made shoes.
In this article, you will learn why is it the best choice if you're looking for these things together and what makes Blake stitching so special.
What Is Blake Stitching?
Lyman Reed Blake invented Blake Stitching in 1856 and then patented it in 1859. The technique entails wrapping the uppers over the insoles and attaching them with a sole stitch.
The seam is more durable and less prone to break when the thread is fastened down. The standard sole and heel are then added to complete the shoes.
Why Blake Stitching
1. Better Flexibility
One feature of Blake stitched shoes is the fact that they're so slim that you find it easy to move in due to their distinguishable stitching method. Though they're thin, they're durable and flexible.
2. Affordable
Because it's much simpler stitching than Goodyear Welt, it's more affordable. So, you won't have to pay too much money to get something flexible, comfortable, and modern---thanks to the single stitch and the special Blake construction.
3. Easy to Break in
As a result that it is thin and flexible, therefore it is easy to break in and take the shape of your toes. In a matter of a few wears, this pair of shoes will adjust to your feet.
The shoes are water resistant as well so walking on a wet floor won't be an issue. In fact, water resistance is one of the features that people think they will have to sacrifice due to the thin thickness of the shoe. But that is not really true.
4. More Modern Look
Due to the method of construction, the shoe gives a familiar European impression. You will feel that the thin stitching gives a slim and smart looking to your outfit.
Blake Construction Process
The canvas starts empty when the procedure begins. Then craftsmen use leather to cut out the shoe's shape. After that, they design the stitching pattern. Finally, from the inside of the shoe, they sew the upper directly to the sole.
When seeking a close-cut sole, Blake welting is also ideal. Because there are no stitches can be seen on the outside, the outsole gets trimmed to the same shape as the upper.
Upper: This is the piece that covers your footwear from above, usually made of full-grain leather. The vamp, the quarters, and, depending on the type, the lacing eyelets are all parts of the upper.
Outsole: This is the portion of the shoe's exterior that faces the ground. Elegant and flexible leather outsoles are preferred for that part.
Blake stitching is carried out using a technique referred to as "single stitch." The upper of the shoe is folded over the insole and sewn into place on the inside of the shoe, using a single thread binding the insole, the upper, and the outsole together.
The shoemaker manually maneuvers each component through a McKay machine, a specialized device that lock-stitches the thread to guarantee the shoe's durability.
Conclusion
Blake stitched shoes are the pair that you look for if you want to have a fairly durable pair, affordable, stylish, and modern enough.
The Blake Stitch is an easy crafting process, and this is the secret to its simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Blake stitching resoleable?
Yes, you can resole Blake stitches. Blake stitching usually uses leather soles not rubber soles. Your shoes will be flexible and durable enough. But in case your outsole has worn out, then yes you can easily repair it using a specific Blake sewing machine.
2. What is Blake Rapid Construction?
Combining Blake Stitching and Goodyear Welt Construction results in Blake Rapid Stitch. In Blake Rapid Stitch, a second sole is added to the upper after beginning with the same fundamental procedure as in Blake Stitching. Direct stitching of the second sole to the outside edge of the upper results in an extremely solid and long-lasting shoe. The end result is a stylish shoe that feels and looks comfy.
3. How do you spot a Blake stitch?
It's simple, spotting Blake stitching is all about looking for the stitching rounds with the outsole shape of the shoe. Also, you're supposed to see the stitch from the inside of the shoe no matter your shoe type or style; casual shoes, dress shoes, you name it. There is no huge difference in the stitching method used in making both.
For a better look at how Blake stitches are made, check out our collection.