Deborah Carré & James Ducker

Carréducker

Shoemaker

©James Holborow

©Richard Boll

©Jonathan Stewart

©Carréducker

A shared passion

Deborah and James met while training in London
Carréducker was founded in 2004
They have trained hundreds of aspiring shoemakers

It all started when Deborah Carré, working in marketing, and James Ducker, teaching business English in Spain, decided to change their career path. They studied shoemaking in London under the training of master shoemaker Paul Wilson. In 2004 they reunited and decided to join forces as Carréducker, launching what was to become an institution for bespoke shoes and courses about the craft. Describing the relation with the customer as a source of inspiration and vital input to their creative process, they are sought after for their use of colour, detail and, of course, fit. Given their passion and expertise, it is no surprise that they also thrive in teaching shoemaking. From amateur trainees to QEST scholars and apprentices, their former students can be counted in the hundreds, learning all the techniques needed to create beautiful bespoke shoes.

Interview

©Richard Boll

©Richard Boll

How would you define what you do?: James: We are problem solvers for one of the most complex parts of the human body, the feet. We are tasked with creating shoes and boots, in all sorts of styles, that provide comfort inside and support and strength outside that must bend and flex with the foot.
Did you learn from a master?: Deborah: Yes, that’s how we met. I received a scholarship from QEST to train with master shoemaker, Paul Wilson, and James also became an apprentice training under Paul. He was extremely generous in sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise, it was a great experience.
What do you love most about your profession?: James: First and foremost, the craft itself; the rhythm of making a pair of shoes and the concentration required is enormously fulfilling. But when we make a pair of shoes the client loves or that make a significant difference to them so they can walk comfortably and stylishly that is what we love best.
What is special about working as a duo?: Deborah: The creative tension caused by two very different craniums! We are two distinct personalities, with strong ideas and creative approaches but with a shared love of shoe making, teaching and beautiful shoes.

Deborah Carré & James Ducker are master artisans: they began their career in 1997 and they started teaching in 2006