INSTRUCTIONS FOR LASTING BOOTS.
If a boot is well cut, and not properly lasted, the boot will not fit.
Soak the counters well in water. Paste between each.
Draw the uppers smoothly over the last, as tightly as the leather will bear.
In drawing the uppers over the last, the counter should be left about half way into its place or position.
After the uppers are well lasted over the ball, then drive the heel last down to its place.
Now commence to last the boot in the shank; smooth either side alternately, towards the toe, until it fits smoothly.
Remarks.—Judgment should always be used in the manufacture of boots or shoes for tender feet. No specific directions can be given; the good sense and discretion of the artizan will suggest such modifications of the rules as the case requires. The instructions given concerning “corns,” will usually correct the difficulty, but in cases of general tenderness of the feet, the alterations must be made throughout.
Around the heel, the patent leather boot should be three-eighths of an inch larger than is the calf boot.