Sue Swain works in a tiny shoemaking studio in Central Lake Township, tap-tapping away on custom made sandals and boots. All summer she travels to art fairs and festivals; all winter she works on the orders. Some of her customers need special orthotics. Others are looking for an unusual design, or for the freedom to choose their own colors and fittings. Still others simply want something handmade with care. They find it at ToeTogs.
Who says boots have to be boring? Who says sandals can’t express personality?
It’s a good life, making shoes by hand. It feels right, like work worth doing. Peaceful.
Some of you may be saying Waaait a minute–didn’t I read this post already? Um, yes, in draft, at the Torch Lake Trails experiment. I granted myself a license to re-use the material here. Besides, Babs sent me some extra photos to post with it and I thought you’d like to see them:
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Torch Lake Views 
Cindy Lou
April 19, 2010
How delightful! Who knew that someone still does this – shoes made with love and detail and uniqueness. Wonder if she has little ‘brownies’ that help at night?!? I really must get to your neck of the woods sometimes!
Gerry
April 19, 2010
I think Sue advertised for Shoemaker’s Elves awhile ago but I haven’t heard whether she managed to find any. Yes, you must wend your way here. It is a rewarding place to visit.
flandrumhill
April 19, 2010
Those boots are beautiful. The leather looks so buttery soft.
Being employed as a shoemaker sounds like such rewarding, soleful work.
Gerry
April 19, 2010
You are completely irrepressible.
Reggie
April 25, 2010
Ooohhh! Those boots are so beautiful! I am smitten!
I wish we had such a creative and adventurous shoemaker here.