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A Guide to Making or Buying Alligator Skin Boots

Alligators were previously considered an endangered species, which was why the law prohibited anyone from using alligator skin to make products such as handbags, wallets, and boots. Recently, however, alligators have increased in number and conservationists are now allowing the manufacture of alligator skin boots. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own pair of these boots.

In preparation, you first have to measure your feet and calves to make sure that your boots fit comfortably. Then you will have to create the design and decide on the style of your boots’ toe and heel. Once you have all the necessary measurements and the design prepared, you will need to create a paper pattern for the top of your boots. You may cut the front and back stays as well as the pull straps from the leather at this time.

In making the tops of your boots, the first step is to skive off the edges and then scrape the leather into a thin strip. Sand the leather strip lightly and then burn it so as to remove any leather residue. Cement the tops of the leather strip together and then sew the tops with overlays and inlays. Pull-straps are also sewn in the same way. You may stitch any pattern that you want on the tops of your boots.

Now that we’ve taken care of the tops, let’s discuss how to make the bottom of your boots. Cut the lining and the bottom part of your boots and then stretch them over a crimp board. Measure, trim, and attach the bottom of the boots, along with the lining, to the top section that you have already made. Craft a hard-leather counter and a counter cover. This is the part of the boot just above the heel that is connected to the bottom of the boot. It needs to be cemented to the top of the boot. Make sure the counter is centered and then sew it along with the cover to the top of the boot. Connect your chosen sole to the boot with cement and then let it dry.

Now, you are ready to wear your hand-made alligator skin boots. But, what if you don’t have the time or inclination to make your own boots, but still want to own a good pair of alligator boots? Here are a few tips on buying the perfect pair of alligator boots.

First, you have to take note that alligator boots are made from different cuts of skin, so you have to decide if you want head, belly, tail, or horn-back boots. If you are not very familiar with the different cuts of alligator skin, it is advisable for you to take a look at a few pairs on display to get an idea of how each cut looks and feels. The next step is to make sure about what size of boots will fit you comfortably. A pinched toe or a bruised heel can result in a very uncomfortable and unattractive limp, thus defeating the purpose of wearing a classy pair of boots in the first place. It would be best to get yourself fitted by a professional before buying a pair of boots.

Checking out the major boot sellers in your area before making a purchase is also a good idea. There are stores that offer boots of good quality at a reasonable price and help you with the fit of your boots as well. If you want something that is really precious and have the budget for it, you had best check out high-end vintage boot shops for the finest in alligator skin boots. Wearing something that originally came from a different era and which is already broken in is truly an exciting experience.

Article Source: http://www.ezinearticles.mk

Writing has always been one of my passions. I have many interests, and wind up writing about them all sooner or later. My latest articles are about the Braun PowerMax MX2050 and the Kitchen Aid blender. Feel free to drop by to check them out.

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