Last
A last is a mechanical form that has a shape similar to that of a human foot. It is used by shoemakers and cordwainers in the manufacture and repair of shoes. Lasts typically come in pairs and have been made from various materials, including hardwoods, cast iron, and high-density plastics.
Production
Lasts come in many styles and sizes, depending on the exact job they are designed for. Common variations include simple one-size lasts used for repairing soles and heels, durable lasts used in modern mass production, and custom-made lasts used in the making of bespoke footwear. Though a last is made approximately in the shape of a human foot, the precise shape is tailored to the kind of footwear being made. For example, a boot last would be designed to hug the instep for a close fit. Modern last shapes are typically designed using dedicated computer-aided design software.
Historically, lasts were typically made from hardwoods and cast iron because these materials retain their shape, even when in contact with wet materials (like leather) and subjected to the mechanical stresses of stretching and shaping shoes on them. Today, wooden lasts are generally used only for bespoke shoemaking, particularly in Europe and North America.
Latest News for: last
Phoenix area ozone advisories issued for the last 11 days
The Tribune San Luis Obispo 21 Jul 2018Video shows the last moments before the duck boat sinks in Missouri
St Louis Post-Dispatch
21 Jul 2018
The Tiger Effect doesn't last long for Russell Knox
Baltimore Sun
21 Jul 2018
Walking Dead's Andrew Lincoln reveals season nine will be his last in smash-hit US drama
Daily Record 21 Jul 2018'The Walking Dead' Star Andrew Lincoln Confirms Season 9 Will Be Rick's Last
Forbes
21 Jul 2018
Liam Livingston leads Lancashire to dramatic last-ball win over Yorkshire
The Daily Mail 21 Jul 2018WATCH: Video captures last-known member of Amazon tribe in Brazil
ABC News 21 Jul 2018Newly released video shows man believed to be last of tribe
Sacramento Bee 21 Jul 201810 Beauty Products Essential for a Long-Lasting Summer Party Face
E! Online 21 Jul 2018The Tiger Effect doesn’t last long for Russell Knox
The Virginian-Pilot
21 Jul 2018
Sivasangari and Wee Wern to battle it out in the last four
The Star 21 Jul 2018Taylor County assessed values up compared to last year
Abilene Reporter News 21 Jul 2018- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- Next page »
