Bootblack Badges Book

Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your skills, this book is for anyone drawn to bootblacking - especially those without access to local mentors or Leather bars.

This practical, flexible journal helps you build confidence and track your progress through:

• knowledge, skill and experience badges you can colour in or mark with stickers (sold separately)
• exercises to assess your skills and test your knowledge
• journal pages to log your sessions, note challenges, and set intentions
• encouragement to personalise your bootblack practice to suit your identity, context, and values

• step-by-step guides for cleaning, conditioning, and shining boots and leather
• clear explanations of the basics a bootblack might want to know from what is 'oil tan' to how to treat scuffs
• reflections on the history of bootblacking and its ties to race, class, and queerness
• tips for how to negotiate with sitters and prioritise self care