Stitchdown's Maker's Day Conference 2026

Stitchdown’s Maker’s Day: An Independent Shoemaker & Bootmaker Conference

Stitchdown’s Maker’s Day is an exclusive one-day conference on Friday, November 6, 2026, in Chicago for handmade and bespoke shoemakers and bootmakers. Designed by makers, for makers, the day brings together craftspeople from every discipline to share techniques, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships within the independent footwear community.

The day begins at 8:30am at Artifact Events with coffee, introductions, and small-group educational sessions led by industry experts, including discussions on leather, tanneries, materials, and manufacturing. 

After lunch and time to connect with exhibitors, attendees will walk together to the Chicago School of Shoemaking for an afternoon of hands-on learning, breakout workshops, demonstrations, and panel discussions covering topics such as measuring and last buildups, pattern digitization, tool sharpening and skiving, edge finishing, and the realities of building a successful footwear business.

The day concludes back at Stitchdown Expo’s Friday Night Market, where the conversation continues with exhibitors, makers, and the footwear community over food, drinks, and an evening of networking until 9pm.

Maker’s Day is intentionally limited in size to encourage meaningful conversations, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Whether you’re an established maker or early in your journey, you’ll spend the day learning from some of the best craftspeople in the industry while connecting with peers who share your passion for handmade footwear.

Tickets

Maker’s Day tickets are available exclusively to handmade shoemakers and bootmakers for this curated industry event. Attendance is limited, and alumni from previous Maker’s Days will receive priority access before remaining tickets are offered to vetted applicants.