Great job, Steve! We couldn’t agree more. Always be upfront and honest with the customer. If a cobbler can’t do something, or doesn’t feel confident doing something, just be honest and let them know. Glad to see the customer had his Carmina’s restored back to new! 👍
I am not into shoe repair at the least. Matter fact I do not even own a pair of dress shoes. But both of your channels are a must for me. I watch every episode
@@BedosLeatherworksLLC hello steve I really like to watch your videos, most of them even several times, and with your laugh inserts in between you crown your perfected work. I don't want to accuse you of anything, you're a fine guy but this video looks like a bad Show to me. Why should a person who is able to stitch/sew the upper by hand resp. who is able to connect the upper with the Welt and footbed (in german the footbed calls insole) by hand, not be able to do a machine - made blind stitch ??? sorry, but that doesn't make sense 😉
I would add, paid price is based on your market value - if someone doesn't think you're worth it, you won't get paid that amount, not for long anyway, especially now when it's so easy to research quality.
There comes a point when it's not worth it to get shoes repaired vs buying new, though--a big part of the reason the cobbler is a dying profession. I own very good quality shoes, could easily afford an expensive repair, and I enjoy watching these shoe repair videos. I wouldn't pay these prices, though. It just doesn't make financial sense to pay more than the cost of an extremely expensive, brand new shoe to do so. I continue to be confused as to how the business model works. Maybe a lot more people than I realize are extremely sentimentally attached to their footwear, of they feel it's worth it to have shoes worked on by a well known UA-cam star, or some people just have so much money that they no longer care of they're getting value for their dollars spent.
My brother owned a dry cleaner in a wealthy suburb of Chicago. His prices were high, but, they'd been around for 40 years and did the highest quality work. He used to tell me that small dry cleaners would open up in the area and charge a couple dollars less for shirts and pants etc. He said a few times a month customers of his would come in and say that the dry cleaner down the street was 2 dollars cheaper and he would always tell them that if they wanted to take their $300 shirt to that other guy to save $2 then go right ahead. Ultimately they stayed with the quality shop. Shoes are the same. With Steve's quality craftsmanship, it is worth what he is charging.
Sounds similar to my experience with architecture. Clients come in and quote me internet prices all the time and I explain they're not comparing apples to apples and often invite them to hire the internet "architect" and so far only 2 clients have opted to do so. Eventually both of those clients needed additional work by my associates. I'll never understand it. People are spending at least a couple hundred thousand dollars to build a house but paying less than $10k for a set of plans is highway robbery to them. I had a client who had built a 2 story shop some years back and his contractor never finalized the inspection, the county rediscovered his illegal addition and requested it be torn down. In the end I was able to regenerate the plans for the project and save his building for a nominal fee.
Ya know ive experienced the same thing guy... so often time drug dealers offer a lower price for dope then their competitors to make the sale but who wants garbage? 🤷♂️ shoes 300 dollar shirts drugs its all the same ya know...
I definitely sang the “simply the best” part like Tina Turner....and I’m not ashamed one bit 🤷🏻♀️😂 I agree, it’s nice to see support from other great crafters!
Steve is definitely a master in his discipline. Masters are expensive by definition, quality work has a price..., but look at result, both great and highly durable . The videos are the proof of his mastery, not just a fake Facebook profile like there are plenty!
Enjoy your channel and the level of expertise you demonstrate. Watching your videos are a relaxing way to spend an evening. So let’s continue,with more hammer time. Thx Steve.
Steve, I was in the retail shoe business for 30 years from 1972-2002. My family owned Red Cross Shoe stores which was a nice quality product. You are a true craftsman and artist. You have the skill, knowledge, and talent that is extremely rare these days. You are absolutely correct in your worth. Love these videos.
That's right. Even if you pay more upfront, you actually save money in the long run because you don't have to constantly replace or repair an inferior product.
@NJ I can't afford it at this point in my life unless I buy used, since I currently have no income to save with. But I don't dislike the pricing; better craftsmanship costs more money for produces, and thus makes the final product cost more. That's not to say you can never get good quality products for cheap, but when it comes to shoes the more expensive ones generally are better made.
BTW Steve, there's something that vexed me for a while and I thought that you, being a shoe cobbler, might know something. What is the difference (if any) between buffed leather and suede?
Its more like calling out that in a trade like shoe repair, skill isn't the only high priced asset. You also put your trust and the reputation of the skilled worker/artisan on the line and if they deliver a sub par result due to that lack of skill/attention to detail, it is VERY hard to earn that trust back along with that money that got flushed down.
We all got so used with mass produced goods on 'cheap enough' products and services that we settled for that. Then we thought we could apply that same mindset to very high skilled craft based labor or artisans. And subject them to our concept of pricing and value but not consider the utter skill in their craft and the trust not to botch even a very expensive and delicate job.
“Price is only an issue in the absence of value” The value or quality of someone’s skill, trade, profession, service or work product is in direct proportion to their fee or cost. That’s why professionals get paid more than amateurs, Ferrari’s cost more than Chevys, Rolex costs more than Timex, Picasso’s cost more than Kinkade.... you get my point. Don’t ever apologize for being the best and setting a standard of excellence. That’s why the capitalist free market works, the consumer ultimately decide what the worth of something and what they are willing to pay.
Agreed, well stated. Although sadly, even some brand names once associated with high quality aren't nearly as good as they were even 15 or 20 years ago (I've heard this about Louis Vuitton in particular--the current quality doesn't compare with vintage Vuitton).
@@novembermiss , that is so true. To me, that is why customers need to express their dissatisfaction with the quality by not buying. If enough stop buying, the company will have to reevaluate why sales are down.
On a lighter note: My 4-year-old came and sat on my lap while I was watching your intro and started waving and saying "hi" to you thinking I was on another Zoom meeting XD
Great to see Trenton and Heath applaud your thoughts and work. They were the first cobblers I started watching. Like you they are the best. Would like to see T and H repairing other leather items like you.
Poetic justice would be the customer having Chris to pay Steve for fixing his mistakes. Thank you Steve for your very informative videos, really enjoy watching your channel.
Dude, hands down! You are a master of your craft. What you've done in this video is nothing short of being proud of what you do. The heart you put into these videos is bar none. Repairing another person's work part of being a craftsman sadly, but at the end of the day, the feeling of a job well done cannot be replaced. Thank you for your videos and knowledge.
I'm not even into shoes that much. I take them off as soon as I sit down. But I'm addicted to this channel. It's probably the quality craftmanship that I enjoy.
I am so sorry that this happened. We, your fan club, is behind you, ALL the WAY!!! You are a great and honest craftsman and defend your craft! Mega cudos to you
Damn that was a compelling story. Your work is impeccable and worth every penny. The markets set the price. If you get tired of the shoe game you would be a great lawyer. Thanks for sharing.
You should never feel bad about how much you charge and what other competitors think about your work, you charge accordingly to your skill set and quality you offer to the customer, if the customer is happy that’s what counts. When I fit kitchens and bathrooms my price is the price ,your paying for quality and my time and effort. The customer will always be happy with the outcome .and the reward they get from a good job shows it’s worth paying the extra in the end.
This happens in other trades as well, and the only way to deal with individuals that work this way is to call them out. How you did it was civilized and informative for everyone. You took the high road by repairing the snafu without charge and that is how business should be done. Excellent job!
Honestly I’d love to see the original beginning. You’re always so nice and you joke around. I like your humor. This is very amusing honestly. Won’t lie. I’d love to see and hear the dudes reaction. 😂. Hope you’re doing well! They looked like totally different shoes. Amazing work!
Steve, I’ve watched you cut the sole flap for blind stitching nearly a dozen times, and each time I hate it! I dabble in leather and I kid myself that most things you do I might find useful one day, but I know that if I tried to cut that groove, I’d slice out of the top (bottom) of the sole. It looks SO difficult. It is still nerve-racking for you after succeeding 1,000 times? I am in awe. And before Mr complaining guy criticises my comment “Hey never heard of video editing?” Yes I know, blah blah blah. I’m talking EVER being able to do ONE sole correctly. Hats off, sir. Always a pleasure to watch. Even when I cannot kid myself about copying some of your techniques. Here’s to the next one.
Steve, when you've mastered your craft with years of learning, striving for impeccable work. You have a right to show off. Chris was just jealous of your creativity to solve problems, high standard of service, & the price you're able to charge for that level of skill!
God bless you Steve for the AMAZING craftsmanship and attention to detail...Nowadays, there are more CHARLATANS that there are GENUINE ARTISNAS, and you, SIR, you are an AUTHENTIC ARTISAN!
“My prices are based on my talent, not your budget” I made a sign for my buddies shop with that statement. You do amazing work, that’s why people are willing to pay your prices.
I can tell you that in my trade, craftsmanship comes with a price. I have reworked jobs in the past that bid against me and I lost the work, only to have a client call me back to fix what was worked on. Skill, knowledge, the pure artistry of what we have spent our lives learning, comes with a price. What ever it may be, it is what it is. People pay for it for the love of what you do. You are an artist in the craft you do. It it awesome the things you can do to enrich a part of their past, so they can wear, carry or use whatever you worked your magic on. Hold your head up proud in the craft you ply. Your artistry blesses your clients. They bless you back with kind words and payment for your work.
Jealousy comes in many forms. I'm sorry that you had to go through that, but you are obviously doing things right and your prices are fair for the work that goes into what you undertake. Craftsmen are rare these days, especially ones who deserve the title like you do. I've been watching your videos for a couple of months now, and I'm always impressed with your work! Not every project is going to be perfect, depending on the condition of the item and available options for a repair or complete substitute of parts and features of the original item. Haters are simply gonna' hate, and you justified your prices and your deserved reputation as a quality craftsman. Keep doing what you do, this naysayer is obviously jealous and what jealous people do is try and tear down the reputations and works of those who outshine them. I hope that person is humbled by this video because they obviously botched these shoes, and you've cleaned up his mess. You'd never know they were botched, which is even more proof of your work. 👍
Wow, what sorcery is this??? You took a totalled pair of shoes and brought them back to near new as possible 💖 I understand why you made this video. I know you ranted a lot but you took the time to explain why it was bad and made it educational. Please try to shake off the negative emotions this project/situation has brought you, you saved it and it’s time to let it go. Please enjoy a really well deserved coffee for me. *virtual hugs*
I'm a contractor and go through the same scenarios all the time. love watching your videos. Quality is what matters not the price in most cases. Many times i've been asked to do cheap and quick and every single time i refuse to do the job. It's ether quality or i'm not doing it ..Your the best . Best luck.
I feel sick knowing what happened and now it is being washed over. I understand if the cobbler fixed it or replaced the damaged pair. Neither was done. Instead, it was shoved under the rug and lied about. It's being said now that it is all fixed because he is training with someone "With many more awards and knowledge than you.". So he thinks Mike should just shut up and let the issue go. I'm pissed. I'm gonna explode in a few minutes and probably get kicked, but I don't care. Mike was with me when we tried to pickup twice. Horrid and your video and feelings are justified (I'm the only other one who saw them firsthand besides Mike). Thanks for helping him Steve, I personally appreciate it.
Read your firsthand account--I'm a little confused; did you mean to say "Chris (the one who messed up the job) should shut up"? Because you wrote "Mike should shut up" and I thought Mike was the customer whose shoes were ruined.
@@Ikari777 So Mike, the guy with the ruined shoes who Bedo helped out, should shut up? Mike the customer is the one badmouthing Bedo and not the guy Chris who botched the job?
The Cobbler arrived at the scene of the crime, his cape flapping in the wind. He was pissed. So he took out his mighty hammer.... It was Hammering Time! Beautiful work and an excellent save! A real life Hero for the customer!
It's called JEALOUSY. I've had to learn that not everyone is going to be happy about your happiness and blessings. The work you perform and the gift that you share with the rest of of us is beyond reproach. You don't have to prove anything to anyone because your work speaks for itself. I have never been excited about name brand stuff but you have truly taught me the difference between quality vs. name brand which confirms my idea between the two. It's okay if someone doesn't respect you as long as you respect yourself. The truth of the matter is that his anger is not even about you. Stay the course and do you. Don't let anyone steal your joy. JESUS SAID knock the dust off of YOUR FEET (or shoes in this case) and take YOUR PEACE with YOU . Peace be with YOU and may YOUR PEACE be multiplied.
I love and enjoy every video you make. I learn every time I watch your content. I used to watch so much random crap on UA-cam. Now I primarily just watch videos about shoes, and shoe restoration and repair. Thank you, for giving me something that has created a whole new interest for me and something I just cannot learn enough about. I don't know if I will ever actually touch a pair of shoes, ever, but sure would love to, someday.
I love your commentary. I love your videos. You point out the places where we should look out for when dealing with the construction of the repair. Keep being uniquely you.
Hi Steve, I think we can all tell that this not only bothered you but it also upset you and that because, for you, quality is not an act...it's a habit. Much love and respect from the UK 😀👍
I think it’s great that you informed on shoddy craftsmanship. I took a pair of my AE shoes to my local cobbler and they did a horrible job. They had nothing but 5 star reviews. They cut part of the upper, just sewed on the sole without putting a channel in, the stitching looked like a drunk guy walking along the sole of the shoe, got edge dressing all over the upper, got nowhere near the original holes in the welt,...the list goes on. And like I said, they had nothing but 5 star reviews. I wish I knew before I let them ruin my shoes. So I love that you’re doing the right thing here.
Fabulous re-do! Loved watching each and every step from removing the botched work, to rebuilding the shoe correctly. Yes, there was a cloud of negativity but that is to be expected when re-doing fraudulent work! Excellent job, el hefe!
It's the knowledge, the craftsmanship, and experience! The work you do Steve, is exceptional! The price charged for your repairs, etc are on point! Have a great Holiday. To you and your family.
I’m new to your channel, but must say I’m extremely impressed with you and your work. You are truly a Master Craftsman. The integrity you demonstrated in doing this video is most admirable. Please remain your usual upbeat self and disregard any nay sayers re: this video. Your distaste for having to do this was quite evident, but your honor required it of you. Thank you again for sharing your work with us and reaffirming to me that there are honest , moral, caring craftsmen out there.
Another beautiful project!!! I searched A1 Shoe Repair and see that guy likes to argue with his customers. He gets a lot of negative feedback, and then wants to argue his point, regardless of what the customer says. It's sad. I'm glad you showed this, to let people know there are some hacks out there. What better advertisement to SUPPORT YOUR PRICES than a shit job!! He's actually helping your cause with your prices. Generally, you get what you pay for. Your quality and craftsmanship speaks volumes!! Thanks for sharing another lesson with us, Steve!!!
Oh, how I've been waiting for this! Let's see if Chris has the balls to come say something. Maybe he'll be respectful and just learn from a TRUE professional, but I doubt it. OK. Let's get started!
@@TheRobq7 of COURSE he is. He just got called out hard and proven to be a piece of shit. You give away a free restoration as a prize, then punt it to your apprentice? Shady from the start... SHOULD have used it as the opportunity to show off it SHOULD have been. #battlefieldCarmina
I am from the UK, I worked in a Photography lab. We use to take pride in the customers photographs that they picked up. One poor couple brought in the negatives of their wedding to see if we improve them. There was nothing we could do, they were either out of focus, the composition was wrong, over exposed or under. How can anyone do that on such a special day. I wanted to kick his ass as I knew who it was, but I would of lost my job. The end job of them shoes look amazing, you was taught well. The end result look amazing, a true craftsman!!!
Steve - you've done the right thing. I know you'll have wrestled with yourself about how to 'positively' portray the events that occurred, and why shouldn't you have the opportunity to set some wrongs, right! You're a fine fellow, and you've done the right thing in as sensitive a way as possible. Merry Christmas to you and yours my friend 👍🏼👞
I'm impressed you were able to salvage those shoes. Nice job. When my friends customers complain about his prices he asks them "would you prefer a $5.00 job for $50.00 or a $1000.00 job for $200.00"
It occurs to me that what makes the difference between someone of meager craft and someone who anyone who knows better would really appreciate the end result of someone' s craft is the determination towards excellence. I see that in you AS YOU WORK. 👍🏼
Am sad that instead of trying to reach quality it's a childish jealousy. You do more than repair you give life to items we love and joy to our life's. And you have amazing craftsmanship. That's worth any money and more. 🙏 Let's continue 👍
The way the shoes were returned was a disgrace. Glad you were able to fix them . They looked a 1000 % better . Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the next video .
This Chris guy is certainly jealous of your expertise and success. Truly esteemed gentlemen don't act bitter and lie. Very generous of you to basically reconstruct the shoes for the gentleman. Steve, your booming business is proof your prices are legit and justified. And this is coming from a cheapskaye like myself. I can't wait to send you my pair. Blue suede crepes. Remember these! 😄 just saving up a lil more beforehand.
Great work, Steve. You are always committed on doing a good job and pleasing your customers needs. You work shows the true craftmanship that has inspired others to do a job well done. Unfortunately, you will always haters out there just to be heard. You along with Preston from the Elegant Oxford have really set the bar.
Steve, I have watched several of your videos during the pandemic mostly because or your authenticity. I worked as a baker with first generation Italians who spoke differently and were cultured. Honest hard workers who taught me the trade and how to treat people with respect. You seem to have taken on those same values and it's obvious that you're down to earth. I watch the vids because they transcend me to another world where I imagine my days with the old folks drinking wine, eating cheese and fresh hearth baked french bread while listening to tales of the old country. I enjoy when you reminisce about your dad and how he taught you his skills. Consider yourself blessed to have lived and learned all you are from your wonderful family. The customer is happiest when thet get more than expected. Great work. Thank you!
I think Carmina themselves would be super impressed by the beautiful restoration you have done to these shoes. Anyone would be shocked and impressed you managed to fix them at all, by the amount of stupid mistakes the other ones did. xx
People who are hard working, honorable, professionals, are right to lay it on the line when someone in the same profession has acted underhanded. I understand that, as do most folks of a higher caliber. God bless you for being someone of a very high caliber, and capable of putting right someones obvious wrong, and in the end, serving your customer so beautifully. I have to smile when you sneezed twice and commented how you jinxed yourself because you always sneeze 3 times. My husband is a 3 sneezes at a time kind of man, and if not 3, then 6, and if not 6, then 9. How strange! Anyway, you are the man, and thank God for it!
You did the right thing!!! And an amazing job fixing their mistakes!!! Don’t let it get you down!!! I still loved the video. You are an awesome cobbler!!!! The best if I’m asked!!!! Let’s continue!!!!
This is the type of shoe repairman the gave the negative term “ Cobbled Up”. You on the other hand are one primo Cobbler in the best sense of the word. Keep up the excellent work.😎👍
As always, absolutely amazing craftsmanship!!! Some people need to be put in their place, and tough love is the only way to get through to them. I for one, applaud your honesty, and reserve. I’m sure he deserved a lot worse. Keep up the great work, and the videos!!! 👍🏻
I sent a pair of my father's 40 year old shoes to that place in Tennessee. I sent them a few emails (the job took over three months). Never heard word back. And when I received the shoes, vintage Blake-stitched Bruno Maglis, I could see the original blake stitch holes. Really disappointing. But also, a real lesson in picking up a hobby online though UA-cam. The experience of watching, communicating, and sending you shoes, Steve is a completely different experience. You care. And this video is yet another example of the amount of care you put into your work and into the profession. I'm so glad to have stumbled upon your channel and to have some of your work in my home. I'd say more about that person in FL, but I don't want the NYC to come out. :)
Steve, you rescued those shoes. You have no need to regret having to explain why you had to fix these. It was a lesson in craftsmanship and honest customer service. Thanks.
Having to do extra work to fix someone else’s laziness is so frustrating! I’m so glad you could help! 💕 When someone sneezes 3 times by my mother she says “God Bless You” “And Keep You” “And give you Peace”. She’s the only one I’ve heard of saying that.
@Amanda Schaefer , when people sneeze multiple times, I always say, “bless you,” for the first one, and then, “YOU ONLY GET ONE!” for the next. 🤣 I’m thinking your mother’s method is much, much better.😉
The fact that you dismantled that whole shoe in less than 5 minutes tells me everything i never wanted to know about the level of work that went into this. Usually taking apart a shoe is a ton of work and involves a lot of hard pulling. That thing practically disintegrated in your hands! 😱
I’ll tell you what Steve”. if and when I need any shoe, boot repair it comes to you and, nobody else!!! Your the best I’ve ever witnessed...👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼. “Let’s Continue “
One of my mates is a roofer. He works by himself and is like you, conscientious and fastidious. So often, there are so many bad jobs he sees and his impeccable work ethic makes them good. In Liverpool, UK (where he's from) we have a word that means fake or bad - jarg. When he sees bad roofing jobs he states that Johnny Jarg has been at it again.
Let us know if there is any flack from the “botched job cobbler”. Those shoes look FANTASTIC Steve. I had know doubt. You can pat yourself on the back for another spectacular RESCUE (rescue seems more appropriate in this case compared to restoration). You saved the life of these shoes.
The last couple days a master trades man who can steam/ shape and stretch cowboy hats and who could charge money for teaching his trade had me video message him 2 times in 2 days so he could personally walk me through stretching and shaping the 2 newer cowboy hats my uncle gave me the other day. Anyways he didn't want money or anything just to be able to shoot the shit and teach a young guy like me who wants to learn the trade and that is priceless. Him and his wife will be running through our state this week and the wife and i are going to try and meet them for breakfast before Christmas shopping. He even shaped a cowboy hat to give me for wanting to learn the trade. I've truly humbled myself with getting to learn from a master tradesman who has a huge heart like you and get to watch your videos and watch a master tradesman and just be amazed at the work being performed.
Great job, Steve! We couldn’t agree more. Always be upfront and honest with the customer. If a cobbler can’t do something, or doesn’t feel confident doing something, just be honest and let them know. Glad to see the customer had his Carmina’s restored back to new! 👍
I watch you as well.
Exactly what I say. Thanks guys and CONGRATULATIONS on your 200K THAT IS JUST AWSOME!!!!!!
I am not into shoe repair at the least. Matter fact I do not even own a pair of dress shoes. But both of your channels are a must for me. I watch every episode
I watch both of you!
@@BedosLeatherworksLLC hello steve I really like to watch your videos, most of them
even several times, and with your laugh inserts in between you crown your perfected work.
I don't want to accuse you of anything, you're a fine guy but this video looks like a bad Show to me.
Why should a person who is able to stitch/sew the upper by hand resp. who is able to connect the
upper with the Welt and footbed (in german the footbed calls insole) by hand, not be able to do a
machine - made blind stitch ??? sorry, but that doesn't make sense 😉
" Price is based on my ability not your budget " - every great craftsman ever
Need to hang this in my shop!
Love it!
Yeah man, this is soooooo true...
I would add, paid price is based on your market value - if someone doesn't think you're worth it, you won't get paid that amount, not for long anyway, especially now when it's so easy to research quality.
There comes a point when it's not worth it to get shoes repaired vs buying new, though--a big part of the reason the cobbler is a dying profession.
I own very good quality shoes, could easily afford an expensive repair, and I enjoy watching these shoe repair videos. I wouldn't pay these prices, though. It just doesn't make financial sense to pay more than the cost of an extremely expensive, brand new shoe to do so.
I continue to be confused as to how the business model works. Maybe a lot more people than I realize are extremely sentimentally attached to their footwear, of they feel it's worth it to have shoes worked on by a well known UA-cam star, or some people just have so much money that they no longer care of they're getting value for their dollars spent.
My brother owned a dry cleaner in a wealthy suburb of Chicago. His prices were high, but, they'd been around for 40 years and did the highest quality work. He used to tell me that small dry cleaners would open up in the area and charge a couple dollars less for shirts and pants etc. He said a few times a month customers of his would come in and say that the dry cleaner down the street was 2 dollars cheaper and he would always tell them that if they wanted to take their $300 shirt to that other guy to save $2 then go right ahead. Ultimately they stayed with the quality shop. Shoes are the same. With Steve's quality craftsmanship, it is worth what he is charging.
Sounds similar to my experience with architecture. Clients come in and quote me internet prices all the time and I explain they're not comparing apples to apples and often invite them to hire the internet "architect" and so far only 2 clients have opted to do so. Eventually both of those clients needed additional work by my associates. I'll never understand it. People are spending at least a couple hundred thousand dollars to build a house but paying less than $10k for a set of plans is highway robbery to them. I had a client who had built a 2 story shop some years back and his contractor never finalized the inspection, the county rediscovered his illegal addition and requested it be torn down. In the end I was able to regenerate the plans for the project and save his building for a nominal fee.
Woah woah woah.....they make a $300.00 shirt!?
Ya know ive experienced the same thing guy... so often time drug dealers offer a lower price for dope then their competitors to make the sale but who wants garbage? 🤷♂️ shoes 300 dollar shirts drugs its all the same ya know...
@@jonathanpforr3844 you know drug dealers who lower their prices!?! I been coppin the wrong shit
😂
Great work, Steve. As always, you’re simply the best.
Nice......... support from The Elegant Oxford. That is a compliment.
I definitely sang the “simply the best” part like Tina Turner....and I’m not ashamed one bit 🤷🏻♀️😂
I agree, it’s nice to see support from other great crafters!
@@504CreoleCrystal Hahaha. Me too!
@@hooeezit 😂 almost impossible not to 😆😩
This comment section is like the ultimate crossover!!!
Holy shit. I love all you guys.
Clearly people find your prices acceptable as your shop is busy as shit. Some people still pay for quality work. I know where I'm sending my shoes.
Same here, Trey G.
For the amount of time he spends on a job, and for the quality of the work when completed, it's obviously worth the cost.
Steve is definitely a master in his discipline. Masters are expensive by definition, quality work has a price..., but look at result, both great and highly durable . The videos are the proof of his mastery, not just a fake Facebook profile like there are plenty!
Enjoy your channel and the level of expertise you demonstrate. Watching your videos are a relaxing way to spend an evening. So let’s continue,with more hammer time. Thx Steve.
Me too. Even if I had to save, then send.
Steve, I was in the retail shoe business for 30 years from 1972-2002. My family owned Red Cross Shoe stores which was a nice quality product. You are a true craftsman and artist. You have the skill, knowledge, and talent that is extremely rare these days. You are absolutely correct in your worth. Love these videos.
Good craftsmanship is worth paying for. Your skill is worth whatever price people are worth paying. Love watching your vids!
Howgh!
That's right. Even if you pay more upfront, you actually save money in the long run because you don't have to constantly replace or repair an inferior product.
Well done my friend!
@NJ I can't afford it at this point in my life unless I buy used, since I currently have no income to save with. But I don't dislike the pricing; better craftsmanship costs more money for produces, and thus makes the final product cost more. That's not to say you can never get good quality products for cheap, but when it comes to shoes the more expensive ones generally are better made.
BTW Steve, there's something that vexed me for a while and I thought that you, being a shoe cobbler, might know something. What is the difference (if any) between buffed leather and suede?
as my dad says, "- I'm not that rich to buy cheap products"
Keep up the quality work, sir!
Along those lines, my Grandad used to say: if you buy something cheap, you have to buy it again!
Buy cheap, buy twice!
Steve just gave away hours of expensive labor to call someone out.Gotta love it..
Exactly what price would someone place on a righteous smile?
Believe me, Steve got his money's worth and showed justification to his price.
Its more like calling out that in a trade like shoe repair, skill isn't the only high priced asset. You also put your trust and the reputation of the skilled worker/artisan on the line and if they deliver a sub par result due to that lack of skill/attention to detail, it is VERY hard to earn that trust back along with that money that got flushed down.
God bless UA-cam and the 2020's! Giving us cobbler tea that you'd never ever see any other way or during any other time!!
Worth every penny!
Le that’s how you finish the job!!! The right way!!! Way to go fixing someone else’s crap job. You have incredible craftsmanship Steve!!! Bravo!
It reminds me of a saying: cheap work isn't good and good work isn't cheap.
The trifecta: good/cheap/fast - you can have only two of the three.
I also like the adage that says, “good from far, far from good”
Isn’t that the truth!
yeah in my trade its, " skilled labor isn't cheap and cheap labor isn't skilled".
We all got so used with mass produced goods on 'cheap enough' products and services that we settled for that. Then we thought we could apply that same mindset to very high skilled craft based labor or artisans. And subject them to our concept of pricing and value but not consider the utter skill in their craft and the trust not to botch even a very expensive and delicate job.
You can put a price on parts and labor, but honesty is priceless.
“Price is only an issue in the absence of value” The value or quality of someone’s skill, trade, profession, service or work product is in direct proportion to their fee or cost. That’s why professionals get paid more than amateurs, Ferrari’s cost more than Chevys, Rolex costs more than Timex, Picasso’s cost more than Kinkade.... you get my point. Don’t ever apologize for being the best and setting a standard of excellence. That’s why the capitalist free market works, the consumer ultimately decide what the worth of something and what they are willing to pay.
Well said 👏🏻👏🏻
Agreed, well stated. Although sadly, even some brand names once associated with high quality aren't nearly as good as they were even 15 or 20 years ago (I've heard this about Louis Vuitton in particular--the current quality doesn't compare with vintage Vuitton).
Beautiful, well said.
Nicely pointed out Rollo 👍
@@novembermiss , that is so true. To me, that is why customers need to express their dissatisfaction with the quality by not buying. If enough stop buying, the company will have to reevaluate why sales are down.
The difference between a Master and a hack. You are a true professional and you care deeply about your trade. Don’t feel bad. Just continue.
No one can tell another what his craftsmanship is worth.
Carry on...
On a lighter note: My 4-year-old came and sat on my lap while I was watching your intro and started waving and saying "hi" to you thinking I was on another Zoom meeting XD
that's funny
Great to see Trenton and Heath applaud your thoughts and work. They were the first cobblers I started watching. Like you they are the best. Would like to see T and H repairing other leather items like you.
Poetic justice would be the customer having Chris to pay Steve for fixing his mistakes.
Thank you Steve for your very informative videos, really enjoy watching your channel.
People don’t value skill when they never done it. I like that you are up front with your pricing and don’t cut corners. I enjoy your work.
Steve, I am in awe as to your craftsmanship. Perfect every time. The adage, you get what you pay for is correct. Great video!!
Dude, hands down! You are a master of your craft. What you've done in this video is nothing short of being proud of what you do. The heart you put into these videos is bar none. Repairing another person's work part of being a craftsman sadly, but at the end of the day, the feeling of a job well done cannot be replaced. Thank you for your videos and knowledge.
I'm not even into shoes that much. I take them off as soon as I sit down. But I'm addicted to this channel. It's probably the quality craftmanship that I enjoy.
I am so sorry that this happened.
We, your fan club, is behind you, ALL the WAY!!! You are a great and honest craftsman and defend your craft! Mega cudos to you
I wonder if people complain about the price of Hermes. Can’t complain about quality! I’ve seen other videos but you have one of the best quality!
Damn that was a compelling story. Your work is impeccable and worth every penny. The markets set the price.
If you get tired of the shoe game you would be a great lawyer. Thanks for sharing.
How does cobbling transfer to the skills or profession of a lawyer? Contract law can be very sophisticated- implied, written or verbal?
@@proanswers I think he’s just good at defending his work with evidence and integrity
@@cecilyerker those are better adjectives than implying going into an actual profession of the legal field.
Are you a lawyer?
All ranting aside, you sir have mad skills . To be able to correct a botched repair like that nothing to do say WOW YOU'RE A ROCKSTAR !
You should never feel bad about how much you charge and what other competitors think about your work, you charge accordingly to your skill set and quality you offer to the customer, if the customer is happy that’s what counts. When I fit kitchens and bathrooms my price is the price ,your paying for quality and my time and effort. The customer will always be happy with the outcome .and the reward they get from a good job shows it’s worth paying the extra in the end.
Thank you for cutting through the crap and lies. Thanks for being the voice of reason. We need people to speak up just as you are in this video.
This happens in other trades as well, and the only way to deal with individuals that work this way is to call them out. How you did it was civilized and informative for everyone. You took the high road by repairing the snafu without charge and that is how business should be done. Excellent job!
Excellent work Steve...👍.
Everyone who watches your videos, knows you're a stand up guy...👍👍.
Honestly I’d love to see the original beginning. You’re always so nice and you joke around. I like your humor. This is very amusing honestly. Won’t lie. I’d love to see and hear the dudes reaction. 😂. Hope you’re doing well! They looked like totally different shoes. Amazing work!
Steve, I’ve watched you cut the sole flap for blind stitching nearly a dozen times, and each time I hate it! I dabble in leather and I kid myself that most things you do I might find useful one day, but I know that if I tried to cut that groove, I’d slice out of the top (bottom) of the sole. It looks SO difficult. It is still nerve-racking for you after succeeding 1,000 times? I am in awe. And before Mr complaining guy criticises my comment “Hey never heard of video editing?” Yes I know, blah blah blah. I’m talking EVER being able to do ONE sole correctly.
Hats off, sir. Always a pleasure to watch. Even when I cannot kid myself about copying some of your techniques. Here’s to the next one.
It is nerve racking but you need to stay calm while cutting into the sole❤️❤️👍👍
Steve, when you've mastered your craft with years of learning, striving for impeccable work. You have a right to show off. Chris was just jealous of your creativity to solve problems, high standard of service, & the price you're able to charge for that level of skill!
God bless you Steve for the AMAZING craftsmanship and attention to detail...Nowadays, there are more CHARLATANS that there are GENUINE ARTISNAS, and you, SIR, you are an AUTHENTIC ARTISAN!
“My prices are based on my talent, not your budget” I made a sign for my buddies shop with that statement. You do amazing work, that’s why people are willing to pay your prices.
I can tell you that in my trade, craftsmanship comes with a price. I have reworked jobs in the past that bid against me and I lost the work, only to have a client call me back to fix what was worked on. Skill, knowledge, the pure artistry of what we have spent our lives learning, comes with a price. What ever it may be, it is what it is. People pay for it for the love of what you do. You are an artist in the craft you do. It it awesome the things you can do to enrich a part of their past, so they can wear, carry or use whatever you worked your magic on. Hold your head up proud in the craft you ply. Your artistry blesses your clients. They bless you back with kind words and payment for your work.
“buy once, cry once” can apply to labor as well as goods. You are worth every Penny that you charge.
Or as it's sometimes phrased, "I'm not rich enough to buy cheap."
I’ve always loved your work and videos but I never realized the quality of the jobs you do until it was put next to another’s. Great video as always.
Jealousy comes in many forms. I'm sorry that you had to go through that, but you are obviously doing things right and your prices are fair for the work that goes into what you undertake. Craftsmen are rare these days, especially ones who deserve the title like you do. I've been watching your videos for a couple of months now, and I'm always impressed with your work! Not every project is going to be perfect, depending on the condition of the item and available options for a repair or complete substitute of parts and features of the original item. Haters are simply gonna' hate, and you justified your prices and your deserved reputation as a quality craftsman. Keep doing what you do, this naysayer is obviously jealous and what jealous people do is try and tear down the reputations and works of those who outshine them. I hope that person is humbled by this video because they obviously botched these shoes, and you've cleaned up his mess. You'd never know they were botched, which is even more proof of your work. 👍
Wow, what sorcery is this??? You took a totalled pair of shoes and brought them back to near new as possible 💖
I understand why you made this video. I know you ranted a lot but you took the time to explain why it was bad and made it educational. Please try to shake off the negative emotions this project/situation has brought you, you saved it and it’s time to let it go. Please enjoy a really well deserved coffee for me. *virtual hugs*
I'm a contractor and go through the same scenarios all the time. love watching your videos. Quality is what matters not the price in most cases. Many times i've been asked to do cheap and quick and every single time i refuse to do the job. It's ether quality or i'm not doing it ..Your the best . Best luck.
The quality & professionalism you put in your work is worth the price you charge.
Bedo not playing around. Love it.
People who watch this guy don't care about the drama. I like his videos, interesting and informative.
I feel sick knowing what happened and now it is being washed over. I understand if the cobbler fixed it or replaced the damaged pair. Neither was done. Instead, it was shoved under the rug and lied about. It's being said now that it is all fixed because he is training with someone "With many more awards and knowledge than you.". So he thinks Mike should just shut up and let the issue go. I'm pissed. I'm gonna explode in a few minutes and probably get kicked, but I don't care. Mike was with me when we tried to pickup twice. Horrid and your video and feelings are justified (I'm the only other one who saw them firsthand besides Mike). Thanks for helping him Steve, I personally appreciate it.
Thank you, yeh I know it is frustrating
We should dump a load of old shoes in front of his place, along with a sign saying, "practice makes perfect!!"
Read your firsthand account--I'm a little confused; did you mean to say "Chris (the one who messed up the job) should shut up"? Because you wrote "Mike should shut up" and I thought Mike was the customer whose shoes were ruined.
@@novembermiss He thinks Mike should shut up about it. I reworded to clarify.
@@Ikari777 So Mike, the guy with the ruined shoes who Bedo helped out, should shut up? Mike the customer is the one badmouthing Bedo and not the guy Chris who botched the job?
Great custom craftsmanship can be expensive, but the finish product is priceless.
I have had similar things happen to me in my business. Having to redo bad craftsmanship. My high price was never questioned again.
The Cobbler arrived at the scene of the crime, his cape flapping in the wind. He was pissed. So he took out his mighty hammer.... It was Hammering Time! Beautiful work and an excellent save! A real life Hero for the customer!
🤣🤣🤣🤣
"Hammer Time" had a whole new meaning today, as you hammered your point home!!
Steve, there's no doubt about it your handwork has shown the world that you are a real professional cobbler.
It's called JEALOUSY. I've had to learn that not everyone is going to be happy about your happiness and blessings. The work you perform and the gift that you share with the rest of of us is beyond reproach. You don't have to prove anything to anyone because your work speaks for itself. I have never been excited about name brand stuff but you have truly taught me the difference between quality vs. name brand which confirms my idea between the two. It's okay if someone doesn't respect you as long as you respect yourself. The truth of the matter is that his anger is not even about you. Stay the course and do you. Don't let anyone steal your joy. JESUS SAID knock the dust off of YOUR FEET (or shoes in this case) and take YOUR PEACE with YOU . Peace be with YOU and may YOUR PEACE be multiplied.
Over the top when it comes to skills and craftmanship. Outstanding results.
Do not expect this king of high quality work from too many shops. Steve is try craftsman !!!
I love and enjoy every video you make. I learn every time I watch your content. I used to watch so much random crap on UA-cam. Now I primarily just watch videos about shoes, and shoe restoration and repair.
Thank you, for giving me something that has created a whole new interest for me and something I just cannot learn enough about. I don't know if I will ever actually touch a pair of shoes, ever, but sure would love to, someday.
Steve!!!You’re not only doing amazing quality work, you’re doing a favor to the community by calling out dishonest practices!!!Let’s continue👍🏼
I love your commentary. I love your videos. You point out the places where we should look out for when dealing with the construction of the repair. Keep being uniquely you.
Hi Steve, I think we can all tell that this not only bothered you but it also upset you and that because, for you, quality is not an act...it's a habit. Much love and respect from the UK 😀👍
I think it’s great that you informed on shoddy craftsmanship. I took a pair of my AE shoes to my local cobbler and they did a horrible job. They had nothing but 5 star reviews. They cut part of the upper, just sewed on the sole without putting a channel in, the stitching looked like a drunk guy walking along the sole of the shoe, got edge dressing all over the upper, got nowhere near the original holes in the welt,...the list goes on. And like I said, they had nothing but 5 star reviews. I wish I knew before I let them ruin my shoes. So I love that you’re doing the right thing here.
Beautiful job. The shoes now look as near perfect as possible. Just keep doing what you're doing!
Fabulous re-do! Loved watching each and every step from removing the botched work, to rebuilding the shoe correctly. Yes, there was a cloud of negativity but that is to be expected when re-doing fraudulent work! Excellent job, el hefe!
It's the knowledge, the craftsmanship, and experience! The work you do Steve, is exceptional!
The price charged for your repairs, etc are on point!
Have a great Holiday. To you and your family.
I learn a lot while watching you work, excellent craftsmanship. I also just learned.... don't make Steve mad at you.
I’m new to your channel, but must say I’m extremely impressed with you and your work. You are truly a Master Craftsman. The integrity you demonstrated in doing this video is most admirable. Please remain your usual upbeat self and disregard any nay sayers re: this video. Your distaste for having to do this was quite evident, but your honor required it of you. Thank you again for sharing your work with us and reaffirming to me that there are honest , moral, caring craftsmen out there.
Another beautiful project!!! I searched A1 Shoe Repair and see that guy likes to argue with his customers. He gets a lot of negative feedback, and then wants to argue his point, regardless of what the customer says. It's sad. I'm glad you showed this, to let people know there are some hacks out there. What better advertisement to SUPPORT YOUR PRICES than a shit job!! He's actually helping your cause with your prices. Generally, you get what you pay for. Your quality and craftsmanship speaks volumes!! Thanks for sharing another lesson with us, Steve!!!
Oh, how I've been waiting for this! Let's see if Chris has the balls to come say something. Maybe he'll be respectful and just learn from a TRUE professional, but I doubt it.
OK. Let's get started!
A real man would even pay for the lesson. Let's hope Chris is a Major leaguer.
Nope, he's running off at the mouth and bad mouthing Steve even as this video was being played
@@TheRobq7 of COURSE he is. He just got called out hard and proven to be a piece of shit. You give away a free restoration as a prize, then punt it to your apprentice? Shady from the start... SHOULD have used it as the opportunity to show off it SHOULD have been.
#battlefieldCarmina
Chris is not going to comment. Even novices that watch Steve know what a botched job looks like and we are novices!
I am from the UK, I worked in a Photography lab. We use to take pride in the customers photographs that they picked up. One poor couple brought in the negatives of their wedding to see if we improve them. There was nothing we could do, they were either out of focus, the composition was wrong, over exposed or under. How can anyone do that on such a special day. I wanted to kick his ass as I knew who it was, but I would of lost my job.
The end job of them shoes look amazing, you was taught well. The end result look amazing, a true craftsman!!!
Steve - you've done the right thing. I know you'll have wrestled with yourself about how to 'positively' portray the events that occurred, and why shouldn't you have the opportunity to set some wrongs, right! You're a fine fellow, and you've done the right thing in as sensitive a way as possible. Merry Christmas to you and yours my friend 👍🏼👞
I'm impressed you were able to salvage those shoes. Nice job.
When my friends customers complain about his prices he asks them "would you prefer a $5.00 job for $50.00 or a $1000.00 job for $200.00"
I'm surprised he even bothered replacing the welt when he was just going to glue the sole on anyway.
It occurs to me that what makes the difference between someone of meager craft and someone who anyone who knows better would really appreciate the end result of someone' s craft is the determination towards excellence.
I see that in you AS YOU WORK. 👍🏼
Am sad that instead of trying to reach quality it's a childish jealousy. You do more than repair you give life to items we love and joy to our life's. And you have amazing craftsmanship. That's worth any money and more. 🙏 Let's continue 👍
The way the shoes were returned was a disgrace. Glad you were able to fix them . They looked a 1000 % better . Keep up the good work. Looking forward to the next video .
This Chris guy is certainly jealous of your expertise and success. Truly esteemed gentlemen don't act bitter and lie.
Very generous of you to basically reconstruct the shoes for the gentleman.
Steve, your booming business is proof your prices are legit and justified. And this is coming from a cheapskaye like myself. I can't wait to send you my pair. Blue suede crepes. Remember these! 😄 just saving up a lil more beforehand.
Wow! The final result is just pure love! Awesome handcraft.
Great work, Steve. You are always committed on doing a good job and pleasing your customers needs. You work shows the true craftmanship that has inspired others to do a job well done. Unfortunately, you will always haters out there just to be heard. You along with Preston from the Elegant Oxford have really set the bar.
Steve, I have watched several of your videos during the pandemic mostly because or your authenticity. I worked as a baker with first generation Italians who spoke differently and were cultured. Honest hard workers who taught me the trade and how to treat people with respect. You seem to have taken on those same values and it's obvious that you're down to earth. I watch the vids because they transcend me to another world where I imagine my days with the old folks drinking wine, eating cheese and fresh hearth baked french bread while listening to tales of the old country. I enjoy when you reminisce about your dad and how he taught you his skills. Consider yourself blessed to have lived and learned all you are from your wonderful family. The customer is happiest when thet get more than expected. Great work. Thank you!
I think Carmina themselves would be super impressed by the beautiful restoration you have done to these shoes. Anyone would be shocked and impressed you managed to fix them at all, by the amount of stupid mistakes the other ones did. xx
People who are hard working, honorable, professionals, are right to lay it on the line when someone in the same profession has acted underhanded. I understand that, as do most folks of a higher caliber. God bless you for being someone of a very high caliber, and capable of putting right someones obvious wrong, and in the end, serving your customer so beautifully. I have to smile when you sneezed twice and commented how you jinxed yourself because you always sneeze 3 times. My husband is a 3 sneezes at a time kind of man, and if not 3, then 6, and if not 6, then 9. How strange! Anyway, you are the man, and thank God for it!
You did the right thing!!! And an amazing job fixing their mistakes!!! Don’t let it get you down!!! I still loved the video. You are an awesome cobbler!!!! The best if I’m asked!!!! Let’s continue!!!!
This is the type of shoe repairman the gave the negative term “ Cobbled Up”. You on the other hand are one primo Cobbler in the best sense of the word. Keep up the excellent work.😎👍
As always, absolutely amazing craftsmanship!!! Some people need to be put in their place, and tough love is the only way to get through to them. I for one, applaud your honesty, and reserve. I’m sure he deserved a lot worse. Keep up the great work, and the videos!!! 👍🏻
I sent a pair of my father's 40 year old shoes to that place in Tennessee. I sent them a few emails (the job took over three months). Never heard word back. And when I received the shoes, vintage Blake-stitched Bruno Maglis, I could see the original blake stitch holes. Really disappointing. But also, a real lesson in picking up a hobby online though UA-cam. The experience of watching, communicating, and sending you shoes, Steve is a completely different experience. You care. And this video is yet another example of the amount of care you put into your work and into the profession. I'm so glad to have stumbled upon your channel and to have some of your work in my home. I'd say more about that person in FL, but I don't want the NYC to come out. :)
PEOPLE WHO CONTINUE TO LEARN, CAN NEVER BE STOPPED. PEOPLE UNWILLING TO LEARN CAN NEVER BE HELPED. YOU DO YOU STEVE!
glad to see you call out bad work. been watching you for a several years. you are a true master of your craft. okay lets continue...
Respect is hard to earn and easily lost. Good on you for this video. Lying to clients just cheapens the whole industry. Fantastic job too!
Steve, you rescued those shoes. You have no need to regret having to explain why you had to fix these. It was a lesson in craftsmanship and honest customer service. Thanks.
Wow...if I knew this video was gonna be this brutal, I’d have brought some popcorn 🍿😂 Top job again pal. Respect from the UK 🤙
Having to do extra work to fix someone else’s laziness is so frustrating! I’m so glad you could help! 💕 When someone sneezes 3 times by my mother she says “God Bless You” “And Keep You” “And give you Peace”. She’s the only one I’ve heard of saying that.
that is cool ill have to remember that
@Amanda Schaefer , when people sneeze multiple times, I always say, “bless you,” for the first one, and then, “YOU ONLY GET ONE!” for the next. 🤣 I’m thinking your mother’s method is much, much better.😉
The fact that you dismantled that whole shoe in less than 5 minutes tells me everything i never wanted to know about the level of work that went into this. Usually taking apart a shoe is a ton of work and involves a lot of hard pulling. That thing practically disintegrated in your hands! 😱
I’ll tell you what Steve”. if and when I need any shoe, boot repair it comes to you and, nobody else!!! Your the best I’ve ever witnessed...👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼. “Let’s Continue “
With Steve you get top quality. Not only that, but also integrity. Sadly it’s hard to find people like him
Steve your work is so beautiful, what you charge is absolutely inline with your workmanship and materials used.
Amen brother! You are a true gentleman and artisan.
Very inspiring introduction and excellent expression of how a real man handles business. Respect to you sir!
One of my mates is a roofer. He works by himself and is like you, conscientious and fastidious.
So often, there are so many bad jobs he sees and his impeccable work ethic makes them good.
In Liverpool, UK (where he's from) we have a word that means fake or bad - jarg. When he sees bad roofing jobs he states that Johnny Jarg has been at it again.
Your work is truly amazing. Everything you touch turns out so nice. Complete quality!!!!!
I absolutely love your work.
It's not cheap, but it's worth every penny, and I'm okay with that. It's called value.
Steve, I think good craftsmanship is hard to come by! It is nice to see that good skill of the trade now a days! Love your work! Keep it up!
Let us know if there is any flack from the “botched job cobbler”. Those shoes look FANTASTIC Steve. I had know doubt. You can pat yourself on the back for another spectacular RESCUE (rescue seems more appropriate in this case compared to restoration). You saved the life of these shoes.
The last couple days a master trades man who can steam/ shape and stretch cowboy hats and who could charge money for teaching his trade had me video message him 2 times in 2 days so he could personally walk me through stretching and shaping the 2 newer cowboy hats my uncle gave me the other day. Anyways he didn't want money or anything just to be able to shoot the shit and teach a young guy like me who wants to learn the trade and that is priceless. Him and his wife will be running through our state this week and the wife and i are going to try and meet them for breakfast before Christmas shopping. He even shaped a cowboy hat to give me for wanting to learn the trade. I've truly humbled myself with getting to learn from a master tradesman who has a huge heart like you and get to watch your videos and watch a master tradesman and just be amazed at the work being performed.
That’s is AWSOME