The Made-to-Order Process
1. Inspiration
Start from an existing model, past commission, or a clear idea—you don’t need a finished design.
2. Guidance
We translate your preferences into the right last, leather, and construction, explaining what works and why.
3. Confirmation
Feasibility, timing, and pricing are confirmed personally before anything is placed.
4. Craft & delivery
Your shoes are made by the chosen maker and delivered through one point of contact at The Hand.
Why MTO with The Hand?
Why clients choose to commission through us
Because made-to-order is not only about options, but about knowing where and how to commission.
- We work across several of the world’s finest shoemakers, which allows us to advise beyond a single house or last. Fit and last selection are considered across makers—choosing what truly suits your foot, rather than forcing it into one system. Options only matter once the foundation is right.
- Made-to-order is a core part of our work, shaped by years of commissions and a deep understanding of what works—and what doesn’t—both visually and technically. Guidance is honest and considered—what is possible, advisable, or better left unchanged.
- We act as a translator between you and the shoemaker, turning ideas into clear, workable specifications each maker understands. You have one point of contact, from first conversation to final delivery.
- Feasibility, timing, and pricing are confirmed calmly and transparently before anything is placed, supported by long-standing relationships with our makers.
More Inspiration
Explore Made-to-Order Ideas by Shoemaker
Edward Green
View MTO examples
Gaziano & Girling
VIEW MTO EXAMPLES
Saint Crispin's
VIEW MTO EXAMPLES
The Full MTO Inspiration Collection
VIEW ALL MTO EXAMPLES
Going Deeper into Made-to-Order
For a more detailed look at lasts, fit, and decision-making, explore our journal.
Considering Made-to-Order?
Whether you have a clear idea or a simple question, we’re here to guide you.
What Our Clients Say
A flawless 5.0 ★ rating on Google, with over 50 reviewsRobert“My made-to-order journey at The Hand began with an in-depth fitting and consultation that lasted well over an hour. Dennis took the time to understand my feet, my preferences, and how I would actually wear the shoes. The result was a thoughtful, precise MTO experience that felt truly personal from start to finish.”
Javier“Despite being based in the US, working with Dennis at The Hand has been seamless. His knowledge, guidance, and availability made ordering effortless, even from abroad. I’ve since commissioned multiple pairs and trust him completely when it comes to fit, make-up, and long-term comfort.”
Wilfried“The level of service at The Hand is exceptional. Regardless of order size, Dennis approaches every client with the same care and attention. You genuinely feel listened to, advised, and looked after throughout the entire process.”
Frequently asked questions
Made-to-Order means your shoes are crafted specifically for you, based on a chosen model and last, with personalized decisions on leather, color, sole, and finishing. You benefit from far more choice than ready-to-wear, while still relying on proven designs and expert guidance to ensure balance, comfort, and longevity.
Ready-to-wear shoes are produced in standard configurations and sizes. With Made-to-Order, you refine the details—from leather and color to subtle construction choices—so the final pair better suits your foot shape, lifestyle, and wardrobe.
Made-to-Order is particularly suitable if you:
- Want a specific leather or color not available in stock
- Need a slightly different feel or balance
- Value a more personal and considered process
Our Made-to-Order process is straightforward and guided:
1. A consultation (in store or remotely) to understand fit, preferences, and intended use
2. Selection of model and last based on your foot and style
3. Customization of leather, color, sole, and details
4. Order placement with the shoemaker
5. Production and delivery, followed by aftercare support
We remain available throughout the process for questions or updates.
An appointment is highly recommended, especially for first-time Made-to-Order clients. It allows us to take the time needed to assess fit, discuss options, and guide decisions properly – whether in person or remotely.
Appointments can be arranged:
- In store in Amsterdam
- Via video call, WhatsApp, phone, or email for international clients
If you already know what you are looking for, you may also order exactly as shown in our Made-to-Order inspiration collection. These make-ups can be placed directly via the PRE-ORDER button, without the need for an appointment. We remain available should you wish to fine-tune details or confirm sizing before ordering.
Yes. Many of our Made-to-Order clients are based outside the Netherlands. Through detailed questions, sizing history, photos, and ongoing communication, we regularly guide clients remotely and deliver worldwide with confidence.
Lead times depend on the shoemaker, but typically range from:
- 6 to 8 weeks for certain makers
- 8 to 12 weeks for most Made-to-Order programs
We always confirm the expected timeline before placing your order.
Fit is central to our process. We rely on a combination of:
- Your sizing history across brands
In-store fitting shoes where available
Detailed discussion of foot shape, comfort, and wear patterns
Our long-term experience with each last and maker
Our role is to reduce guesswork and recommend what truly works for you.
Customization varies by brand. In most cases, you can choose:
- Leather and color
- Sole type
- Edge finishing
- Certain design or construction details
- Available widths and/or lasts
We always advise on what makes sense aesthetically and structurally, rather than offering options that compromise balance, comfort, or longevity.
No. Made-to-Order uses existing lasts and patterns with personalization, while bespoke involves creating a last and pattern entirely from scratch for your feet.
Made-to-Order offers an excellent balance of craftsmanship, individuality, and proven fit for most clients.
Pricing depends on the shoemaker and the level of customization involved.
Our Made-to-Order inspiration collection shows indicative prices that already include standard Made-to-Order fees. These prices are intended to give clients a clear sense of typical price ranges before starting the process.
Because each pair is customized, changes to materials, construction, or finishing may affect the final price. We always communicate this transparently and confirm pricing before placing your order.
Very often, yes—especially if you already have a sense of what you like, want a versatile long-term pair, and value guidance and fit over impulse.
We will always advise honestly if ready-to-wear is the better starting point for your needs.
The Hand Boutique Amsterdam
