• Private Experience
• Carbon Neutral

Local fashionista's Francesca welcome you to her small family studio, so you can learn how to make your own Italian high-quality sandals! Personalize and create your own souvenir in Rome in a very local way while supporting a family passion. 100% customizable and 100% local!

Destination

Rome, Italy

Category

Workshops

Duration

2 hours

Available languages

English, Italiano, Español

Included

• Private guide
• Equipment

Excluded

• Pick up and transportation

What you can expect

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with Francesca.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at Via di Portonaccio - Rome to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. Meeting Point

   Welcome at our sandal making studio

4. Coffee :)

   Get to know each other over delicious Italian coffee

5. Pick your Favorites!

   Choose the leather, colour and pattern of your new shoes

6. Sandal Making

   Let's start the sandal making workshop, I'll tell you all the tips & trick you need to know to make your perfect sandals

7. New Sandals

   Check out your final product!

8. Bye Bye

   End your workshop with a new pair of shoes and local tips about Rome

9. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

I can personalize this tour for you

• Tell me your preferred date and group size
• Tell me your preferences and wishes so I can customize the tour for you
• Wait for my personal offer in your inbox!

Contact me

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Carmen🇪🇸 Spain

5 January 2025

A woman artist in a man world… she is great and talented,the sandals are beautiful. Workroom organized and gave us the feeling to stay and work more. Also if you like tailored shoes she is the one…. Everybody loves tailored Italian shoes and these ones with a femme touch, we will order online soon. (Nop I am not her family and met her in the experience)Best experience

Eduardo Luz🇧🇷 Brazil

4 November 2024

We made beautiful sandals and brought incredible souvenirs. All in all, it is an unforgettable experience. Francesca is very friendly and everything went very smoothly.Extraordinary moment.

Fred🇨🇦 Canada

30 September 2024

I booked this activity as a surprise for the two ladies travelling with me (my wife and my niece). I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect before arriving however once we did, the ladies eyes just lit up. Francesca was so friendly and personable and welcomed us so graciously. The ladies were so happy with the directions and guidance Francesca provided in building and making their own special candles from Italy. Francesca is certainly a master craftsperson in her area of expertise (custom shoe and sandals). They both said this was by far their best part of of two week trip in Italy. That’s certainly saying something. Best Experience

melanie

11 June 2024

Francesca is a dream local. Organized, charming, and talented. In a mere one hour we created a beautiful pair of sandals. I would highly recommend this engaging experience.Time percectly spent

Robin🇺🇸 United States

9 June 2024

Francesca is fun, funny, and just delightful. She walked us through the steps of making sandals. It’s a little bit artsy and a little bit of manual labor. Very fun experience. She steps in to help at difficult parts. We thoroughly enjoyed our whole time! Magical Roman creative experience

Eric 🇺🇸 United States

8 June 2024

Amazing experience with a true artisan. My wife and daughter took part in Francesca’s sandal-making workshop. I was able to hang out and drink espresso (thank you!) while they made their own pair of sandals. Francesca was a great and patient teacher and fun to talk to. You are able to see some of her other work (generally dressier shoes) which was impressive. I can’t recommend this workshop enough.

Diana

30 May 2024

My friend and I really enjoyed taking this class with Francesca. She walked us through the making of leather sandals, checking us step by step to make sure we were doing it correctly. She was very friendly and we learned a lot about hand made shoes. She has really beautiful portfolios of her work as well.Fun and engaging class

Ansonia🇺🇸 United States

17 November 2023

We had the best time with Francesca! She was personable, very knowledgeable and so helpful. When we arrived she greeted us with a warm smile and delicious snacks. She explained the process and we got started right away. We got to choose the style and leather colors. We actually did the work and she checked every step. We ended up with such beautiful sandals.Made in Italy - by me!

JILL🇺🇸 United States

9 November 2023

Although we did have trouble finding the studio once we arrived it was amazing. We had a great learning experience and phenomenal conversation. I would recommend this experience to anyone and everyone. So informative. Thanks again Francesca. It was a great way to kick off our trip!!!BEYOND AMAZING

candace🇺🇸 United States

22 October 2023

our handmade sandals turned out wonderful. would differently do it again.amazing

mary🇺🇸 United States

5 October 2023

I took my friend to do this for her birthday while we were in town, and I couldn't have asked for a cooler experience! Francesca is amazing and getting to take part in the tradition of making Italian leather sandals was incredible. Also basically the best souvenir you could ever come home with. Thank you for opening your studio doors to us! Unique and wonderful

Mike🇺🇸 United States

19 May 2023

(My wife Cheryl took this experience.) Francesca was very kind and patient and exceedingly good at her craft. It was a unique experience - I never knew how shoes were made and how much work went into handmade shoes. It’s great that I got to learn, have a good time with a nice woman, and walk away with my own hand crafted souvenir of my trip to Rome. Fun unique experience!

Melissa🇺🇸 United States

9 April 2023

We had a great time learning from Francesca! I’m in awe of her talent, and we’re so lucky to have had a chance to learn from her. I am thrilled with the sandals we made in our session, and we had a great time chatting with Francesca during our workshop. I highly recommend the workshop, and also, if you need custom shoes, get in touch with Francesca. She makes truly beautiful and one-of-a-kind shoes!Unique activity with a gorgeous souvenir

Katy🇺🇸 United States

26 March 2023

Our experience with Francesca was truly one of a kind! My mom and I had so much fun at her shop, making our shoes. Francesca walks you through all the steps and is there to help and check that everything is being done well. We’re so happy with how our sandals turned out! We had a great conversation and left with many many places to see on our trip to Rome as well as a new friend! Definitely recommend booking if you’re considering it! Such a great experience!

h5z9xcf5jk🇮🇹 Italy

13 December 2022

Francesca was lovely and her shoes are unique and good quality.Awesome experience

Kim🇪🇸 Spain

18 November 2022

Rome is known for fashion so what better way to experience it then getting to make your very own shoes, a perfect souvenir. Francesca is a rock star. She is extremely talented and a great teacher. She is patient and kind and explains a very complex process in a fun manner. You will want to make time for this unique experience, it's not to be missed. A Roman Experience Not To Be Missed

Kit🇺🇸 United States

22 October 2022

Working with Francesca was remarkable and a unique experience we will never forget! We walked and then taxied to her location but stopped first for salad and pizza! The area seemed to be out of the hustle and more a place where workshops are located which was a great experience to see another area of Rome. Francesca met us at the door of her laboratory and she was the perfect Roman hostess—beautiful inside and out! We got busy making the most beautiful sandals I will ever own! Francesca is only 1 of 2 women operating as a custom shoe maker in Italy and a master crafts person with an an expertise and creativity that is evident throughout her workshop! She measured my feet for a future custom pair of shoes and even with my terrible bunions I know her shoes will be beautiful! I would highly recommend this experience! You will remember and treasure your time spent with @lemastro! Gracie mille!Francesca is AMAZING!!

Nam🇬🇧 United Kingdom

26 September 2022

What a wonderful experience - beautiful workshop and a truly lovely teacher. Learning while chatting away getting to know Francesca and her love for her art (which is infectious!) is an experience I hope to repeat again with my friends too. I believe she's the only female shoemaker in Italy - and is quite rightly kept busy with beautiful one-off pieces she makes for clients all over the world. Give it a go while she's still offering these classes! :)Super special experience-highly recommend!

Alexis🇺🇸 United States

31 July 2022

We simply adored our session with Francesca - such a fun class with an amazing takeaway (a beautiful pair of sandals!)! Such a unique experience to have during a trip to Rome - make time for this one for you, your friends, or your family! Absolutely amazing experience!

Lindsay🇺🇸 United States

29 June 2022

We had the best time making beautiful sandals!! We had grandmothers and kids and in between and everyone had a great time!! Francesca was wonderful and her studio was impressive and so clean. The location is a bit outside of the city center but was easy to get to in an Uber. (The building is a “U” shape with the parking lot in the center of the “U” — the studio is in the far right corner) Such a great “girls day out” Highly recommend!!So Much Fun!!!

Molly🇺🇸 United States

18 June 2022

If you want an authentic experience with a true artisan, look no further. I thoroughly enjoyed my lesson from Francesca, who is an incredibly skilled maker and also just a very sweet person. Getting to visit her workshop, to receive such clear instruction, and to end up with a beautiful pair of sandals—it’s simply priceless. This was, perhaps, my most memorable two hours spent in Rome, and I can’t recommend the experience enough! Priceless!

Letisha 🇺🇸 United States

11 June 2022

This was one of the best days! Francesca is not only a gifted and talented shoe designer, but a wonderful teacher. So much fun to create a memorable piece of our Italian vacation. To bring home shoes that we made ourselves was awesome. Francesca made it incredibly easy, explained each step and made sure that our sandals came out looking great! Definitely recommend and will definitely remember this experience each time I slip into my custom made originals!! Fantastic and Fun!

Gwen🇨🇦 Canada

27 May 2022

My afternoon with Francesca was fun, interesting and informative. Francesca put me at ease and made me feel welcome immediately. Although a truly gifted artisan, Francesca was patient and kind when taking me through the steps of making the sandals, giving me guidance and lending a hand when my skills fell short.Best souvenir ever! I appreciated spending the time with a local artisan and learning about the process of shoe design and fabrication. Every question I asked was answered. This is an activity suitable for all ages. It’s a fun and will leave you making a ‘local’ connection. I left with a sense of accomplishment abd couldn’t wait to send photos to family and friends. I appreciate the opportunity to support a woman in what is a male dominated occupation. I will cherish the memories of this experience. Thank you, Francesca A wonderful unforgettable 5*+ experience

Melissa 🇺🇸 United States

15 April 2022

My daughter and I frequently travel together and try to engage in cultural activities of the place we’re visiting. Making Italian leather shoes brings you appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each pair of these expensive design pieces. This is a worthwhile experience because you get to feel like you are a part of Italy, you learn how shoes are made by this hands-on activity and you take home a wonderful souvenir! Francesca is wonderful! We had so much laughter! My only recommendation is to update the map pin or add the address on your details page. See you in Istanbul!Unique Opportunity

Jonathan & Kelsey🇺🇸 United States

1 January 2022

This was a ladies outing during a family trip to Rome and included three generations (with the youngest being 15 yrs old). All six of them came away with sandals that they love and, more importantly, had an absolutely fabulous time making them with Francesca. Highly recommend!So much fun, and beautiful sandals!

מנואה🇨🇦 Canada

22 November 2021

The workshop with Francesca was the best experience I had in Rome… I learned a lot from her and had a good time.. rather than that I got to meet this powerful special person.. I really recommend to anyone who want a special time in Rome to try the workshop and meeting Francesca.. looking forward to my next workshop :)Best experience in Rome..

Randee🇺🇸 United States

3 November 2021

I purchased this experience for my niece's birthday and Francesca was the best host. She is warm and friendly, does a great job explaining and walking you through the process, and in the end you walk away with a beautiful pair of handmade sandals. I highly recommend!!Beautiful Sandals

Dr. Barousch🇩🇪 Germany

31 October 2021

My daughter (12 years old) made her favorite sandals together with Francesca. Francesca is an extremely lovely person who explained every step with angel patience & was helpful to my daughter. Simply delightful.The result is just beautiful - craftsmanship as well as aesthetics - and a daughter laughing all over her face. An absolutely successful day! Thank you Francesca!!!!A girl beaming with joy

Lauren

1 October 2021

Taking this workshop with Francesca was a total pleasure. She's a sweetheart and lovely to chat with, first of all, but also, this is a fantastic experience if you're looking to do something crafty outside of the usual tourist circuit. My friend and I planned this workshop for our first afternoon in Rome when we knew we wouldn't want to be walking around too much, and it worked out beautifully - it was very chill and also a lot of fun (and, not for nothing, happens to be in a neighborhood with some great, low-key bars nearby if you're looking for something to do afterwards). You'll leave with a new appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into a quality pair of shoes, not to mention an excellent pair of custom sandals. Worth every cent and if I go to Rome again I'd absolutely take this workshop a second time. I wish I could take this workshop again

Unknown

6 September 2021

Francesca is a true artisan. Very different and unique experience and what better than to actually make/create your own sandals? For a "simple" sandal design there is a lot of work that goes into the creation. Was a very fun and enjoyable experience and would 100% recommend. Only negative is that it was a little difficult to find the shop but still great experience.Must do

Simon🇬🇧 United Kingdom

29 July 2020

it was such a different and enjoyable experience which brught the family together on this trip. The team are so dedicated and knowledgeable so it was a treat for all of us even the people who did make the sandlas but were just watching. I'd highly reccomend it. an amazing experience

Laura🇮🇹 Italy

12 March 2020

This was such a unique experience. If you have a chance while in Rome I highly recommend. This was a once in a lifetime experience.A must-do unique experience!

Gwendolyn🇺🇸 United States

22 October 2019

The sandal making was one of the highlights of our vacation. Francesca was very professional and knowledgable. We laughed and had lots of fun. Thanks for an unforgettable experience.Awesome

Michele🇺🇸 United States

12 September 2019

This was such a fun experience! Since this was my first time in Rome, I wanted To do the regular tourist attractions but also some personalized experiences away from the crowds. This was perfect! I spent A lovely afternoon with Francesca in her workshop, creating my custom sandals, and having casual conversation. On top of it all, I have A new pair of sandals as the best souvenir. I would Recommend this experience to other travelers. Thank you again Francesca!Wonderful afternoon!

Daniela🇩🇪 Germany

10 September 2019

Want to get an unique souvenir from your trip to Rome? Do you love shoes, Italian craftsmanship and being creative? This is the workshop to book! I had such a fun time working on my personalized sandals in the cute little studio of LeMastro. It is for sure a memorable experience. I can highly recommend it!A memorable and fun experience

Hannah🇺🇸 United States

5 July 2019

I thought this was so much fun and very interesting to learn about! Plus, you get a really cool “souvenir” to take home at the end! Unique Experience

Candace🇺🇸 United States

4 July 2019

We were three generations on this special trip to Rome, and this workshop made an already memorable trip extra special. These women are so talented and professional. It was fun making the sandals, but learning from them and watching them work made it even more special. I would do this again in a heartbeat. Fantastic!

Amrita🇺🇸 United States

21 June 2019

Sharon🇺🇸 United States

17 June 2019

I was traveling with my 2 nieces, varying in age. We had the most pleasant day while making our sandals. It was fun and the women were patient as they taught us the process. We laughed and enjoyed the entire experience. Thank you for the special memories. SharonA memorable day

Wendie🇺🇸 United States

31 May 2019

Our experience with Giovanna & Francesca showed us a slice of Rome that would not be available anywhere else. Sitting at the cobblers table with G & F and their master teacher (yes, you never stop learning in their trade) was amazing. While F helped us create our sandals G was crafting a custom platform dress shoe. So cool to see. We did 90% of the work on our own leather sandals. Living in a chilly place I barely wear sandals, but it was still well worth the experience. Nine days and 5 cities later it is still a highlight of the trip for both my sister and l. Wonderful personal experience.

Kathy🇺🇸 United States

25 May 2019

We had the best time making our custom sandals. The girls were very professional, and helped us every step of the way. Energized us with espresso, and kept us laughing. Loved the experience and have hand made (by us) sandals to remember the day. They also recommended a great place for lunch. Highly recommended this experience. We love “With Locals.”So much fun!!!!!

Terry🇺🇸 United States

31 March 2019

This was a unique and fantastic experience. Having been to Rome a few times, my family was looking for something new and different. This fit the bill. It was fun, engaging and allowed us to take home a little of Italy. Great experience

Heidi 🇺🇸 United States

20 November 2018

I will highly recommend this experience To anyone looking for a unique 1.5 hours in Rome. It was fantastic and Giovanna and Francesca are the nicest hosts and teachers.Anazing experience!

Ayelet🇮🇱 Israel

16 November 2018

It was so exciting doing my own Italian sandals! Giovanna is a real professional and so nice! It was a unique experience that I will not forget and the sandals are awesome!!! Exciting experience

Amanda🇺🇸 United States

19 September 2018

My husband and I had so much fun making our sandals. Giovanna and Francesca were such gracious hosts and very patient with us. I would recommend for anyone who loves to craft or would love to try something new!Amazing time

David🇺🇸 United States

29 June 2018

What a spectacular experience for our family. From the Master sitting in the front of the shop, the expert craftsman who welcomed you with smiles, to the apprentices learning their trade. Shoe lovers and adventurers alike will welcome this fabulous experience away from the bustle of tourists cramming the typical Roman sites. For a short while feel like you are part of this magnificent city and it’s culture. Molto Bene!The Best!

Victor🇮🇹 Italy

4 May 2018

My sandal making experience with Giovanna and Francesca was excellent. As a footwear professional it was vital and hands-on learning experience for my career. I recommend their class for all beginners, experts and tourists alike. Special Experience

Itabora🇺🇸 United States

19 April 2018

I was in Rome this past week (April 2018) and saw this offer from WithLocals for handmade sandals class. I signed up with Giovanna and Francesca and it was a lot of fun. They are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. They both took me to the process of making a pair of leather sandals and not only I learned something cool I also brought home my own Italian handmade leather sandals. It was a great experience and I recommend this experience to anyone. Itaborá Oakland, CA Making Sandals in Rome, IT.

Chelsea🇺🇸 United States

8 December 2017

Such a fun experience! A unique souvenir and the ladies were absolutely wonderful :)Make Your Own Italian Sandals!

Elie🇫🇷 France

5 November 2017

We came in Rome for my girlfriend's birthday and we decided to try this experience. And it happened to be above our expectations : Giovanna and Francesca were so kind helpful and professional and helped us discover the manufacturing process of a sandal. This experience is unique and it's a perfect way to meet and do a workshop with local people, far away from the touristics and mainstream attractions in Roma (that we loved too :) ) We highly recommend this, and will come back next time we come to Roma. Elie & MarionAmazing experience!!