Ahmed Bouchaala

Shoemaker

Babouches and a Moroccan savoire-faire

Ahmed has been practising shoemaking since the 1980s
His pieces are made with all natural ingredients, including plant-dyed leather
He crafted a pair for Moroccan Prince Moulay Rachid

Ahmed Bouchaala specialises in crafting the Moroccan babouche, a traditional leather slipper. His journey began in the alleys of Fez, where as a child he watched master shoemakers at work. "I learned the craft through observation and consistent trial and error. Before I knew it, babouches had become more than a practice – they were a calling," Ahmed says. Today, in his workshop, he shapes each pair by hand with Ziwani leather dyed with wheat bran, herbs and even pigeon droppings. Ahmed's shoes reflect centuries of savoir-faire, but also a personal pride rooted in precision and tradition. He now sells his works in Morocco and abroad, with one royal commission standing out above all – a pair made for Prince Moulay Rachid.

Interview

How did your journey with shoemaking begin?: My father asked a shoemaker to teach me the craft when I was younger. I learned shoemaking step by step, watching and practising. I tried other crafts, but always came back to shoes. Eventually, I opened my own workshop, which felt like the right place to be.
What defines a true Fez babouche?: A pair of babouche shoes is known for its elegance and breathability. Fez babouches are made with Ziwani leather – yellow, soft and dyed entirely with plants. I use all natural materials, including bran, herbs, pomegranate and even pigeon droppings. People recognise them by colour and smell – they are pure Fez.
What piece are you most proud of creating?: I am really proud of the pair of babouches I was commissioned to make for Prince Moulay Rachid. I handcrafted it with great care, detail after detail. This commission proved to me that traditional work is still valued at the highest of levels.
How long does it take to make a pair of shoes?: A fully handmade, detailed pair takes up to five days. A simpler version can take one day. I work alone, without shortcuts, to ensure each cut and stitch is executed precisely. It is not a fast process, but that is the whole point.

Ahmed Bouchaala is a master artisan: he began his career in 1980 and he started teaching in 2000