I reconstruct archaeological footwear of Lithuania and Europe – from the 16th century until the present day. Shoes are an important part of ancient human clothing that can tell many fascinating stories. By reconstructing them, I recreate part of the historical past.

I try to follow all the ancient technologies as closely as possible, however I sometimes use more modern tools in my work, such as knives for cutting leather. If the footwear is intended for wearing, I use synthetic thread because it is much more durable. I make shoes from vegetable-tanned leather as well as modern chrome-tanned leather. When creating pieces for museums, I try to recreate everything exactly – from materials to tools, stitches and techniques.

When reconstructing ancient footwear, everything is specific: I rely on my accumulated materials and knowledge, use medieval awls, chisels and wax, recreate ancient stitches – I do everything as they did in the Middle Ages.

What pleases me the most is the process itself, but also the result of producing a pair of beautiful footwear. The opportunity to touch originals and see what historical footwear looked like with my own eyes, then creating a pair. There is no routine in this craft – every pair is different, every model is different. It is a constant change.