CRAFTS AND SHOEMAKING COURSE OUTLINE

Course Overview

The Crafts and Shoemaking Course at Zebra Liquid Enterprises is a 1-month vocational training designed to equip participants with hands-on skills in craft-making and shoemaking. This course empowers individuals to create high-quality, handmade products, including jewelry, bags, home décor items, sandals, and leather shoes. Participants learn to use a variety of materials such as leather, beads, fabrics, and recycled materials. The course also includes business training, guiding learners to start and grow small-scale enterprises.

The program is tailored for unemployed youth, artisans, and aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering job creation, creativity, and financial independence. Graduates gain access to market linkages and mentorship to help them build successful businesses or pursue careers in craftsmanship and footwear production.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will:

1. Learn the fundamentals of craft design and shoemaking techniques.

2. Develop skills to create artisanal products such as jewelry, handbags, and sandals.

3. Master the shoe production process from pattern-making to finishing.

4. Understand material sourcing and how to incorporate eco-friendly practices.

5. Gain entrepreneurial and marketing skills to sell products locally and internationally.

6. Access mentorship and market linkages to grow their business after training.

Course Structure and Topics

Week 1: Introduction to Craft-Making and Design

• Overview of Craft Materials: Beads, leather, recycled materials, fabrics, and threads.

• Basic Tools for Crafts and Shoemaking: Pliers, cutters, needles, lasts, and sewing machines.

• Product Design and Creativity: How to conceptualize and design unique crafts.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Recycling materials to create sustainable products.

Hands-On Practice:

• Making simple jewelry using beads and threads.

• Designing and stitching small bags or wallets.

Week 2: Shoemaking Techniques – Sandals and Slippers

• Introduction to Footwear Production: Structure and components of shoes.

• Pattern-Making and Cutting Leather: Crafting patterns for sandals and slippers.

• Stitching and Assembly: Hand-stitching and attaching soles.

• Quality Control in Shoemaking: Ensuring durability and comfort.

Hands-On Practice:

• Designing and making leather sandals or slippers.

• Practicing stitching techniques and sole attachment.

Week 3: Advanced Crafts and Leatherwork

• Creating Decorative Crafts: Home décor items, bracelets, and keychains.

• Bag and Purse Production: Designing and assembling handbags and backpacks.

• Advanced Shoemaking: Producing closed shoes and simple loafers.

• Leather Finishing Techniques: Dyeing, polishing, and branding leather products.

Hands-On Practice:

• Producing leather handbags or custom crafts.

• Making a pair of closed leather shoes or loafers.

Week 4: Business Skills and Market Preparation

• Business Finance for Artisans: Budgeting, pricing, and managing production costs.

• Branding and Packaging: Creating attractive packaging and product labels.

• Marketing and Customer Engagement: Building a brand and identifying market channels.

• Regulatory Compliance: Guidelines for product standards and certifications.

• Market Linkages and Export Opportunities: Accessing local and international markets.

Hands-On Practice:

• Developing a business plan for a craft or shoemaking business.

• Creating product packaging and marketing strategies.

Training Approach

• Trainer-Learner Ratio: 1 trainer per 30 learners for personalized instruction.

• 80% Practical Learning: Focus on product creation and hands-on practice.

• Follow-Up Support:

  • 6 months of mentorship to help participants start their businesses.

  • Assistance with obtaining certifications if needed.

  • Market linkages to connect graduates with retailers and craft fairs.

Assessment and Certification

Participants will be assessed through:

1. Practical Product Development: Creating a variety of crafts and shoes.

2. Business Plan Presentation: Developing and presenting a craft or shoemaking business idea.

Graduates will receive a Certificate of Competency from Zebra Liquid Enterprises, with further assistance to acquire DIT certification if needed.

Target Audience

• Unemployed youth, vulnerable individuals, and artisans seeking practical craft-making and shoemaking skills.

• Aspiring entrepreneurs interested in launching craft or shoe production businesses.

• Individuals passionate about sustainable and eco-friendly product creation.

Community Impact and Market Access

At Zebra Liquid Enterprises, we are committed to empowering individuals through craftsmanship. Through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), participants can access capital to start their businesses. We also provide market linkages, connecting trainees to local stores, hotels, boutiques, and export markets.

Why Choose Zebra Liquid Enterprises for Crafts and Shoemaking Training?

• Proven Expertise: Over 10,000 beneficiaries trained across Uganda.

• Comprehensive, Hands-On Training: Focus on practical skills and product development.

• Ongoing Mentorship and Support: Six months of follow-up to ensure business success.

• Strategic Market Access: Assistance with certifications and connections to markets.

• Collaborative Partnerships: We work with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to empower communities.

Enroll in Zebra Liquid Enterprises’ Crafts and Shoemaking Course to unlock your creativity and build a sustainable business. With expert trainers, access to capital, and connections to markets, you’ll be well-equipped to turn your passion for crafting into a profitable venture.