Every few months, a new style—or sometimes a duo—joins the Rana Cheikha collection. Each model carries its own identity, requiring specific techniques and construction methods. But while the design details vary, the development process in the workshop follows a steady rhythm that honors craftsmanship and precision.
In this post, I’m giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the fabulous Sia sandal, a bold and beautifully structured design that blends comfort, confidence, and a signature Rana Cheikha twist.
How a Shoe Comes to Life
Once the design is finalized (you can read the article How to Design a Shoe: Concept to Creation for insight into that process), these are the key steps in crafting a new model:
1. Select the shoe last depending on the design
2. Create the pattern and cut the leather
3. Assemble the shoe upper
4. Develop and test a prototype
5. Adjust and refine the prototype as needed
6. Re-make and reassess until the final version is approved
7. Begin scaled production
The Sia Sandal: A Fresh Take on a Beloved Favorite
The Sia sandal has quickly become one of our most loved models—worn, walked in, styled, and restyled by women who love a bit of boldness with their comfort. With its bold cut-outs, signature X-stitch, and confident silhouette, it captured exactly what I aim for: originality, comfort, and everyday edge.
So I thought: Why not give the Sia a few new outfits?
This season, the Sia returns in fresh new colourways—each one chosen to highlight its standout details, like the signature X-stitch and bold cut-outs. Whether you’re dressing up neutrals or adding a punch of contrast, there’s a new Sia for every mood.
While the design process remains the same, each new leather or color combination goes through the same meticulous development journey—from material selection to prototype testing—to ensure it meets our standards in both look and feel.
Step-by-Step: The Making of the Sia
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Pattern Cutting
We begin by cutting each leather pattern piece for the upper and lining. The leather is carefully examined for natural imperfections like scars or discoloration.
Every piece must be:
- Cut along the correct stretch direction
- Avoid waste and maximize yield
- Marked for folds, perforations, holes, and overlaps
The initial X-stitch holes are also punched—twice, in fact: once before and once after combining the upper with its lining. This stage requires absolute precision from the clicker (the craftsperson who cuts the leather).
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Assembling the Upper
Next, the assembler works closely with the pattern maker to bring the shoe to life—like fitting together a puzzle. The cut pieces are stitched into a complete upper, ready to be formed.
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Creating the Prototype
Using the same shoe last that the pattern was designed for, the first prototype is constructed. It’s at this point we start seeing the actual shape and volume of the shoe.
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Testing & Adjusting
Now we assess:
- Does it fit as intended?
- Is the design accurate to the sketch?
- Are any technical adjustments needed?
Working closely with the artisan, I review potential changes—visual tweaks, structural corrections, or improvements for better comfort. If changes are needed, a second prototype is created.
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Final Assessment
The updated version is studied again. Only once both the artisan and I are satisfied with the final prototype do we move into production, scaling the pattern to fit all required sizes with equal precision and beauty.
Why We Do It This Way
Because I believe in slow fashion (and you can read my insight into this in the interview by L'Orient Le Jour).
We don’t follow trends or mass-produce hundreds of pairs in flashy colors. Instead, we focus on:
- Small-batch production
- Long-lasting, well-made footwear
- Timeless colorways that work with your wardrobe
- Supporting local craftsmanship
Every pair of Rana Cheikha shoes is designed to stay with you for years—growing more personal, more beautiful, and more yours with every step.
The Sia sandal is a process, a partnership between designer and artisan, and a reflection of what we stand for: thoughtful design, timeless wearability, and an enduring connection between what we wear and how it's made. You can explore the Sia sandal, and the rest of the handmade collection here!
Join the movement, and, as always, feel free to reach out for additional guidance or explore more of our blogs from The Shoe Advisor for further insights and tips on all things footwear.
Signing-off: The Shoe Advisor
// Have questions? Reach out here or by email at rana@ranacheikha.com //
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