After working for 10 years in a consumer electronics store, I started my training as a shoemaker at the age of 27. In the first year I learned in a shoe factory in Langenfeld. Shortly thereafter, I switched to a shoemaker in Mettmann and completed my training there. The master shoemaker Rolf Rainer supported his apprentices welI, so I could take a lot with me. I even traveled for training to Moscow. There I took the inspiration for my handmade shoes, which today also decorate my store windows.

In 2019, I opened my own cobbler shop in Düsseldorf-Gerresheim, but I rather call myself a "shoe stylist". I want to bring joy to people with my work and make the society more aware of sustainability issues. To create something new with my hands is the best feeling for me. For this reason I have deliberately chosen to operate an open creative workshop. I want people to see how things are being repaired and how unique pieces are being created.

Slow working is the motto at Kapire. We can't let ourselves get stressed, otherwise we can't do the repairs well. I want to show what I make and how I make it and I am happy about everyone who wants to have a look and ask questions.

I love my job because it's so versatile, full of tricky challenges that we've always managed to overcome so far. From a sustainable point of view, as well as with regard to the Düsseldorf-Gerresheim neighborhood, I hope to be able to contribute to a positive change.

Handmade custom shoes are especially fun for me because I get to live out the art craftsmanship to the fullest. Because of this skill, sneaker repairs, bag & leather repairs are naturally very welcome here.