A well-built wooden shoe tree is beyond a storage tool- it's a simple woodworking project that combines shape and purpose. Whether you're an experienced woodworker or a beginner, craft your own shoe tree will be an interesting and useful DIY. In this blog, we’ll show you how to make your own wooden shoe tree and why it’s worth having in your wardrobe.
What is a Shoe Tree?
A shoe tree is a foot shaped device that fits inside a shoe while it’s not worn. It helps maintain the shape, prevents creasing, and absorbs moisture of the shoe. Wooden shoe trees, specially cedar shoe trees, provide additional benefits by naturally removing odors and absorbing excess sweat, making them an essential shoe care item.
Why Make a Wooden Shoe Tree?
Getting premium boot trees or cedar shoe trees can be expensive. Making one yourself helps you to personalize the shape and size for your specific shoes or boots. It’s a practical craft requiring materials, making it perfect for beginners and expert woodworkers. And, it’s a great way to highlight beautiful exotic wood.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, pick up the following tools and materials:
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Coping saw or bandsaw
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Chisel set
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Sandpaper (various grits)
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Drill and wood bits
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Spring or tension mechanism (from an old shoe shaper or shoe tree)
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Wood glue (optional)
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Wood finish or oil (optional)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Wooden Shoe Tree
1. Trace the Shoe Shape
Let’s start by tracing the outline of the shoe onto the wood blank. Using a pencil, draw the natural curves. This outline will form the base of your custom shoe shaper.
2. Cut Out the Basic Shape
Using a coping saw or bandsaw, carefully cut along your outlines. If you’re making a pair for shoes, make two identical pieces.
3. Split the Toe Block
To replicate the purpose of a professional shoe tree, cut the toe portion in half vertically so it can expand and contract to maintain the shoe’s shape.
4. Hollow Out and Shape
Use chisels and sandpaper to carve and smooth the heel and toe blocks. The heel should follow the shoe’s contour, while the toe should slide in snugly.
5. Add the Spring Mechanism
Drill holes in the heel and toe parts for inserting a spring or tension bar. This gives the shoe shaper its stretching capability, similar to commercial cedar shoe tree.
6. Sand and Finish
Sand every surface completely. Apply a natural finish or oil to protect the wood and enhance its grain. Avoid glossy varnishes, which may damage leather interiors.
Do Wooden Shoe Trees Stretch Shoes?
Wooden shoe trees do not stretch shoes in the same manner dedicated stretchers do. Instead, they keep the shoe's original shape and prevent collapse or shrinkage. Over time, a shoe tree may provide a mild hold that helps preserve fit, but its main purpose is to maintain shape - not stretching.
How to Use Shoe Trees
When using a shoe tree, insert the toe part first into your recently worn shoe. Then compress the spring and slide in the heel section. When not in use, keeping the shoe tree inside helps absorb moisture and preserve their structure. This is important for leather shoes and boots, so use a boot tree for taller footwear.
Customize with Exotic Woods
Make your shoe tree from exotic hardwoods like Purpleheart, Bubinga, or Padauk available at Exotic Wood Zone. These woods offer natural durability, elegance, and resistance to cracking. If you prefer traditional options, a DIY cedar shoe tree also offers excellent moisture absorption and a fresh, aromatic scent.
Final Thoughts
Crafting your own wooden shoe tree is a satisfying project that improves shoe care and allows you to showcase your woodworking skills. Whether you make a classic cedar shoe tree, a full boot tree, or a custom exotic wood shoe shaper, the result is a useful tool that protects your footwear investment for years.