Shoes are more than just an everyday necessity—they can be an extension of your personality. Whether you’re someone who dreams of a closet full of fabulous footwear or you simply need reliable shoes for your daily commute, finding the perfect pair can be a challenge. But what if you could design your own custom shoes, tailor-made to your exact preferences? Welcome to Hoboken Shoedio, a one-of-a-kind shoemaking studio in Hoboken, New Jersey, where creativity meets craftsmanship. Run by designer and shoemaking expert Rebecca Heykes, Hoboken Shoedio allows anyone to dive into the world of shoemaking and craft their own perfect pair. Let’s take a look at the fascinating story behind Hoboken Shoedio and how you can get involved in the magic of making shoes.
The Beginning of Hoboken Shoedio: How It All Started
Rebecca Heykes, the brilliant mind behind Hoboken Shoedio, didn’t always know she wanted to be a shoemaker. Originally from the Midwest, Rebecca grew up with a passion for design. She attended the Milwaukee School of Design, where she studied industrial design, a decision she describes as “the best decision ever.”
After graduating, she moved to Chicago, where she landed a role creating visual displays for Anthropologie. This experience deepened her creative skills, but the 2008 recession forced her to reconsider her career direction. Rather than letting economic challenges stop her, Rebecca saw an opportunity to pivot and pursue a passion she hadn’t explored yet—shoemaking.
Rebecca enrolled in Cordwainers Technical College in London, a prestigious institution known for its expertise in shoemaking. Here, she spent two years mastering the craft, focusing on footwear design and learning the finer details of European shoemaking traditions. According to Rebecca, it was an eye-opening experience that solidified her love for creating shoes. She soaked up as much knowledge as possible, saying, “I tried to extract as much as I could from that experience.”
From London to New York: Building a Career in Shoemaking
After completing her program in London, Rebecca returned to the U.S. in 2011, settling in Sunnyside, Queens. New York City’s vibrant fashion scene presented endless opportunities for a budding designer, and Rebecca wasted no time getting involved. Over the next few years, she worked with several well-known brands, including Nine West, Anne Klein, and Marc Fisher, gaining valuable experience in product development and footwear design. Her work took her around the world, allowing her to refine her skills while collaborating with top designers.
It was during this period that Rebecca met Keiko Hirosue, a fellow shoemaker and creative force in her own right. The two became fast friends, exchanging tools, ideas, and supplies, supporting each other on their shoemaking journeys. Together, they opened the Brooklyn Shoe Factory, a studio space in Brooklyn where they collaborated on various projects until the studio closed in 2019, just before the pandemic.
Keiko now runs Brooklyn Shoe Space, a makers’ co-working space in East Williamsburg, where students can learn to craft their own shoes, much like the experience Rebecca offers at Hoboken Shoedio.
Hoboken Shoedio: A Creative Hub for Shoemakers
In January 2020, Rebecca took a leap of faith and opened Hoboken Shoedio, her very own shoemaking studio located at 1012 Grand Street in Hoboken. This industrial space is not just a workshop—it’s a creative hub where design, innovation, and community come together. The building is home to a diverse group of artists and designers, and Rebecca is incredibly thankful for the flexibility and support her landlords have shown, especially during the pandemic.
When you step into Hoboken Shoedio, you’ll be greeted by an array of tools, machines, and materials that reflect the artistry behind shoemaking. The studio is filled with textures and equipment that any shoemaker would envy. Rebecca’s unique approach to using the space is what makes it stand out: it serves multiple purposes beyond just her own work.
Loyal Footwear: Rebecca’s Own Shoe Brand
One of the key components of Hoboken Shoedio is the production of Rebecca’s own shoe brand, Loyal Footwear. This brand reflects her passion for sustainability and creativity, offering made-to-order shoes that are both stylish and eco-friendly. Her vegan designs are a hit with customers looking for ethically produced, high-quality footwear. Each pair is handcrafted, making every shoe truly one-of-a-kind.
A Space for Collaboration and Learning
Rebecca doesn’t keep Hoboken Shoedio all to herself. She’s created a welcoming environment where other designers and shoemakers can come in, rent the space by the hour, and use the vast collection of tools and machinery she has amassed. This collaborative atmosphere is a perfect place for emerging designers who need access to professional-grade equipment without the financial commitment of owning it themselves.
In addition to offering workspace for fellow designers, Rebecca also teaches shoemaking. She offers a one-day Vegan Shoemaking class, which can be booked through Airbnb Experiences. This class is perfect for anyone curious about the shoemaking process, allowing participants to craft their own vegan leather shoes from start to finish.
Rebecca’s Spotlight Moment: Project Runway
If Rebecca looks familiar, it might be because you’ve seen her on TV. She made an appearance on season 19 of Project Runway, where she worked with designer Katie Kortman to create a pair of colorful ankle booties. The collaboration was a true reflection of her fun and innovative style, complete with pom-poms for a playful touch. This national exposure brought even more attention to Rebecca’s work and the amazing things happening at Hoboken Shoedio.
What Makes Hoboken Shoedio Special?
Hoboken Shoedio isn’t just a workshop—it’s a space where creativity thrives, where both amateur and professional designers can explore the art of shoemaking. Rebecca’s passion for her craft shines through in everything she does, from designing her own shoes to teaching others how to make their own.
Here’s what makes Hoboken Shoedio a standout:
- Hands-On Learning: Rebecca’s shoemaking class is perfect for beginners who want to try something new or experienced designers looking to refine their skills.
- Collaborative Space: Designers can rent the studio and use Rebecca’s equipment, making it a flexible option for creatives who need a professional workspace.
- Sustainability: Rebecca’s brand, Loyal Footwear, focuses on vegan and sustainable shoe production, appealing to eco-conscious customers.
- Customization: Whether it’s a class or a personal project, Hoboken Shoedio offers opportunities for custom shoe design that you won’t find in traditional stores.
How to Get Involved: Booking a Class or Renting Space
Curious about making your own shoes or collaborating with Rebecca? There are several ways to get involved with Hoboken Shoedio:
- Book a Class: Rebecca offers her Vegan Shoemaking class through Airbnb Experiences. It’s a one-day event where you’ll learn to make your own shoes from scratch.
- Rent the Space: Designers can rent Hoboken Shoedio by the hour, giving them access to professional-grade tools and equipment.
- Shop Loyal Footwear: Check out Rebecca’s made-to-order vegan shoes by visiting her website at Loyal Footwear.
Conclusion
Hoboken Shoedio is much more than a shoemaking studio—it’s a place where creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration come together. Whether you’re interested in designing your own shoes, learning the art of shoemaking, or simply supporting a local designer, Rebecca Heykes and her Hoboken Shoedio offer a truly unique experience. With her deep knowledge, innovative designs, and passion for teaching, Rebecca has turned this hidden gem in Hoboken into a hub for creativity and inspiration.
FAQs
- Can anyone join a shoemaking class at Hoboken Shoedio? Yes, Rebecca offers shoemaking classes through Airbnb Experiences, and they are open to all skill levels.
- Is Loyal Footwear vegan? Yes, Loyal Footwear is a vegan brand, using sustainable materials to create stylish and eco-friendly shoes.
- How can I book a shoemaking class? You can book a class through Airbnb Experiences by searching for “Vegan Shoemaking” in Hoboken, NJ.
- Can I rent the space even if I’m not a professional shoemaker? Absolutely! Hoboken Shoedio is open to all creative individuals who want to use the space for shoemaking projects.
- Where can I purchase shoes from Loyal Footwear? You can shop Loyal Footwear’s made-to-order designs by visiting Rebecca’s website at loyalfootwear.com.
